TCC, Paul Quinn College Partner for New Education Degree Program

Tarrant County College will partner with Paul Quinn College starting this fall to provide increased access and easier transition for education students pursuing a four-year degree and teacher certification.

Through the program, TCC students who have completed, or are near completion of, an Associate of Arts in Teaching Degree, can take courses toward a bachelor's degree from Paul Quinn College on TCC's South Campus.

"We are excited to partner with TCCD in bringing this innovative program to life," said Paul Quinn President Michael Sorrell. "Both Tarrant County College District and Paul Quinn College understand that today's successful institutions of higher education must make the extra effort to improve access and opportunity for their students.  Ultimately, that's what our joint venture is about- increasing the access and opportunities for TCCD students and alums."

Classes will be offered on Fridays and Saturdays in a hybrid format, combining online and classroom instruction, and will be taught in accelerated eight-week sessions, rather than the normal 16-week semesters. The program's focus on urban education will also provide a new opportunity to students who want to teach in large, urban school districts primarily with diverse populations. 

"This partnership provides students with a unique opportunity to transition easily to a four-year degree program," said Education Instructor and Department Chair Altheria Gaston. "Paul Quinn has created a degree plan that shows exactly how students' A.A.T. coursework will transfer into their bachelor's program."

Students completing the program will earn a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies, which leads to teacher certification for early childhood through grade 6.

"Though the education program partners with other universities for students seeking to transfer, Paul Quinn is the first four-year institution to offer education classes on South Campus, and this is our first partnership with a historically black college or university," said Gaston.

The program's first session will begin Friday, September 10. An information session will also be held starting at 6 p.m. on Sept. 10 in room SFOD 1508 at South Campus, located at 5301 Campus Drive in Fort Worth. Those interested in attending should bring unofficial transcripts. Additional program requirements include a cumulative GPA of 2.5, passing ACCUPLACER or THEA scores, interview and writing sample, and a cleared background check.

For more information, contact Paul Quinn Chair of Education Kizuwanda Grant at 214-379-5407 or TCC Department Chair Altheria Gaston at 817-515-4615.

Media Contact: 817-515-5212