TAMUK expands educational opportunities

University signs Memorandums with DMC, VC

Texas A&M University-Kingsville has formed alliances with Del Mar College (DMC) and Victoria College to further student education. 

On May 12, DMC and TAMUK partnered and signed a five-year Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that is designed to accomplish a joint admission program, reverse transfers, and a non-academic consortium agreement.

The MOA will begin giving opportunities to students this fall. 

“The memorandum of agreement we’re signing today is a great example of partners working together to meet the needs of those we serve,” said DMC President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Mark Escamilla. “And, the five-year agreement is an expansion of an already productive relationship between Del Mar College and Texas A&M-Kingsville. Our mutual goal is to provide our students access to all the resources and services they need to be successful.”

The Joint Admissions Program will allow students to be a part of both institutions with access to facilities and programs. The goal of the program is aimed to enhance the student experience and provide a smooth transition between both institutions.

“First, this partnership will establish a seamless pipeline for Viking students to become Javelinas. Students who qualify for admission to TAMUK will be able to pursue courses concurrently at both institutions. This will allow Del Mar College students to jump-start their pursuit of a Texas A&M-Kingsville degree,” President Dr. Mark Hussey said. “Second, this type of collaborative effort will prepare students to meet the economic needs of our region. Third this agreement is the first step in helping TAMUK achieve the goal of being recognized as the number one institution for transfer students in South Texas.”

Through this collaboration students will be able to transfer coursework from the university to DMC in efforts to complete a DMC degree program. Non-Academic Consortium Agreements with DMC and TAMUK will also be provided through the recent MOA, meaning students will have access to Financial Aid Office, Distant Education and Career Services. 

“Texas A&M University-Kingsville and Del Mar College have enjoyed a strong relationship for decades. Del Mar is an institution of excellence, and we are proud to partner with them to expand educational opportunities in the Coastal Bend,” Hussey said.

TAMUK has also secured a partnership with Victoria College (VC) by offering a joint admission and reverse transfer opportunities for students pursuing an engineer degree.

Photo by MARCOM
TAMUK signs a MOA with Victoria College to strengthen education and build a smooth transition from  junior college to university.

“I am very excited to be a part of this new engineering alliance,” said Dr. Deborah Pedraza, associate professor of mathematics at VC. “Victoria College and Texas A&M-Kingsville are leaders in innovative education, and are changing the future of college education. This partnership aligns with local industry needs by offering a high-quality education that will allow students a transparent transition to this four-year university and on into the workplace.” 

TAMUK signed the MOA with VC on May 17. Similar to the MOA signed with DMC, the agreement will provide students with reverse transfer credits and joint admissions. 

“This is a wonderful agreement,” said Dr. Lou Reinisch, provost and vice president for academic affairs at TAMUK. “It puts students first and gives them new opportunities.