Concordia College and Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State) have formalized an academic partnership that will create new opportunities for students at both institutions through articulation agreements, shared programming, and innovative collaborations.

Administrators celebrated with a signing ceremony Wednesday, May 7, at Concordia during an informal meet-and-greet event for instructors from both institutions.

The gathering marked the official launch of several new initiatives:

Three articulation agreements for biology, psychology, and business, which defined pathways for M State graduates to transfer seamlessly to Concordia to complete a bachelor’s degree.

A new memorandum of understanding allowing M State students to participate in study away programs through Concordia.

The development of a new interdisciplinary minor in criminal justice at Concordia, in which Concordia students take coursework taught by M State faculty through the Metro College Alliance course-sharing model.

Students will be able to start taking advantage of the initiatives this coming fall semester.

Concordia’s provost and dean, Dr. Susan Larson, expressed her enthusiasm about the agreements, noting the similarities between the schools.
“Both M State and Concordia College are deeply committed to creating attainable and accessible educational pathways for students, to ensuring students achieve high levels of success, and to strengthening the Fargo-Moorhead region,” Larson said. “I’m grateful for this partnership and excited about how it will enhance the learning experiences and outcomes of our students and contribute to the vitality of our communities.”

Dr. Matt Borcherding, provost and vice president for academic affairs at M State, underscored the importance of the collaboration.

“We are excited about the new articulation agreements with Concordia College,” Borcherding said. “These agreements provide our students with seamless transfer opportunities, enhancing their educational and career prospects. Additionally, this collaboration fosters faculty partnerships, enriching academic programs and promoting innovative teaching practices. Together, we are committed to student success and lifelong learning in the Metro.”