Partnership to Address Business Education Teacher Shortage

SCC and WSU Collaborate on Transfer Agreement

South Central College (SCC) and Winona State University (WSU) have formed a partnership to facilitate a transfer agreement that aims to alleviate the shortage of qualified business education teachers. This initiative targets graduates from SCC’s Office Administration and Technology (OAT) program, enabling them to seamlessly transition into WSU’s Business Education program.

Pathway to a Bachelor’s Degree

Students who earn an administrative office management associate of science (AS) degree at SCC will be able to transfer as third-year students to pursue a bachelor of science in teaching (BT) degree at WSU. This collaboration comes in response to the state of Minnesota's designation of Business Education as a teacher shortage area for the 2024-25 academic year. Notably, WSU boasts a 100% job placement rate for its graduates in this field.

Insights from Faculty

Kari Bluth, an SCC OAT faculty member and former high school teacher, highlighted the significance of this partnership. She expressed her personal experience with WSU's strong educational foundation and acknowledged the urgent need for qualified business education professionals in schools. Dana Brigson, WSU Program Director and fellow educator, underscored the importance of collaboration between faculty from both institutions, aiming to make education accessible and effective for students pursuing a teaching career.

Further Information

• Details about the Administrative Office Management AS degree articulation can be found at SCC OAT Website.
• More information about WSU’s Business Education program is available at WSU Business Education Program.