Rose State College and Southwestern Oklahoma State University Sign Agreement for Music, Business and Nursing Programs Published February 16, 2024

Rose State College and Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) solidified a partnership aimed at expanding student opportunities in Music, Business and Baccalaureate Track Nursing. The agreement was signed at Rose State College on Monday, Feb. 12, 2024.

The collaboration, formalized by Rose State President Dr. Jeanie Webb and SWOSU President Dr. Diana Lovell, underscores a commitment to facilitating seamless academic transitions and addressing critical workforce needs in Oklahoma.

"At Rose State College, we believe in more than just education – we're dedicated to creating pathways for students to achieve their academic goals,” Dr. Webb said. “Through our partnership with SWOSU, we're increasing opportunities for student admission in Music, Business and Baccalaureate Track Nursing. This partnership also plays a vital role in workforce development in Oklahoma. By offering guaranteed spots for Rose State students in the Baccalaureate Track Nursing program at SWOSU, we are ensuring that aspiring nurses have a clear path to obtaining their degrees and entering their careers in healthcare fully equipped for success. Transitioning from Rose State to SWOSU to complete a four-year degree opens doors for students, allowing them to enter Oklahoma's workforce with the tools needed for success.”

Under the terms of the agreement:

• Business: Students enrolled in Rose State College's Associate of Science (AS) in Business program will enjoy a streamlined pathway to SWOSU's Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Business Administration. Six specialized tracks are available, encompassing accounting, agricultural business, entrepreneurship, finance, management and marketing.
• Music: Aspiring musicians will have the opportunity to pursue their passion through three distinct programs, including the burgeoning field of music therapy.
• Baccalaureate Track Nursing: In response to the state's pressing nursing shortage, graduates of Rose State College's Baccalaureate Track Nursing AS program can seamlessly transfer to SWOSU's Baccalaureate Track Nursing program. Notably, the agreement guarantees five reserved spots for Rose State graduates within the SWOSU program.

“In signing these memorandums of understanding with Rose State College, we are not only opening doors but building bridges,” Dr. Lovell said. “These agreements pave clear pathways for Rose State College students to seamlessly transition into bachelor's programs at SWOSU, ensuring their place in our academic community. By focusing on essential fields such as Nursing, Business and Music Therapy, we're not just shaping careers but fulfilling critical workforce needs in Oklahoma. It marks the beginning of a stronger partnership between our institutions, driven by our shared commitment to empowering students and serving our state.”