Piedmont, College of Athens ink education transfer deal

Partnership aims to meet workforce needs by creating clear route to teaching credentials

Piedmont University President Marshall Criser, front right, and College of Athens President Dr. Marcia Wilbur celebrate their schools' collaboration with other members of their staff.

Piedmont University and College of Athens have announced a new articulation agreement to make it easier for students to pursue education degrees. Under the agreement, College of Athens students who earn an associate degree will be guaranteed transferability to Piedmont University’s Athens Campus, where they can pursue a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education or Special Education.

Piedmont University President Marshall Criser says this partnership reflects the schools’ shared values to meet critical workforce needs in the state.

“This partnership accelerates seamless pathways, ensuring College of Athens students have a clear route to achieve their academic and professional goals,” says Criser.

The agreement also allows students who complete a bachelor’s degree at either institution to seamlessly continue their studies in graduate education programs at Piedmont University that lead to Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) certification.

“College of Athens is honored to collaborate with another Christian college to provide a teacher certification opportunity for those students who wish to serve in public schools,” says College of Athens President Dr. Marcia Wilbur.

Although the agreement does not guarantee admission, it offers a framework for students to follow and helps them align their courses with Piedmont’s degree requirements.​Representatives from both institutions will conduct regular reviews of the agreement to ensure it remains current and relevant to student needs.