SFU and GACTC enter new articulation agreement

Articulation Agreement creates a path for GACTC students into Saint Francis University Associate of Applied Science

Loretto, PA (09/11/2024) — Saint Francis University and the Greater Altoona Career & Technology Center (GACTC) recently implemented a new articulation agreement that will allow GACTC high school and postsecondary students to move seamlessly several of the center's programs into the online Associate of Applied Science in Specialized Studies offered through Saint Francis University's Division of Professional Studies.

Under the agreement, students who successfully complete any of GACTC high school or post-secondary programs with 700+ hours can transfer up to 48 credits into the new online A.A.S. in Specialized Studies. That means they only need to take four additional courses through Saint Francis to earn the A.A.S. degree.

The Associate of Applied Science in Specialized Studies is an online degree program that offers a flexible, laddering pathway for people with specialized certifications and more who wish to pursue a college degree. Graduates from GACTC and other institutions can save time and money with this transfer-friendly program that awards credits from qualifying specialized certifications. The program aligns with certifications in fields such as Aviation, Electrical, HVAC, Health Occupations, Welding, and more. A.A.S. credits can also be rolled into a bachelor's degree program at SFU.

"We are incredibly excited about this new articulation agreement with Saint Francis University, as it provides our students with a unique and seamless opportunity to further their education while maximizing the skills they've gained at GACTC. This agreement opens doors for both our high school and postsecondary students, allowing them to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Specialized Studies with minimal additional coursework. It's a testament to our commitment to offering pathways that not only enhance career prospects but also make higher education more accessible and affordable." - Nicole Zernick, Assistant Director, Greater Altoona Career & Technology Center.

The articulation agreement developed by Nicole Zernick, Assistant Director, GACTC and Sherri Link, Director, Division of Professional Studies at Saint Francis University, became effective immediately upon its signing in August 2024.