LITTLE ROCK - North Arkansas College in Harrison has signed an agreement with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) that allows Northark Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) graduates to transfer to a corresponding online Bachelor of Science degree program through UAMS without leaving their hometowns.

This is the first 2+2 partnership between the two institutions and the first MLT online bachelor degree option offered in the state. The 2+2 means students attend Northark for two years and then transfer to UAMS for two more years to earn the bachelors' degree.

In addition to providing an online degree that is convenient and accessible, both institutions desire to provide seamless transfers, thereby affording students the opportunity to earn a high-quality degree from both institutions in the most efficient manner possible.

Signing the agreement at UAMS was Stephanie Gardner, Pharm.D., Ed.D., UAMS provost and chief strategy officer, and Dr. Randy Esters, president of North Arkansas College.

Under the terms of the agreement, any student transferring from Northark to UAMS who has completed courses identified in the MLT 2+2 Degree Plan Checklist, completed required transfer procedures and gained admission to UAMS will receive full transfer credit for previously earned hours in his or her major field of study. The medical laboratory sciences program is in the UAMS College of Health Professions.

Northark's MLT program has experienced a 100% job placement rate for several years, with most students receiving job offers before graduation. This agreement will increase the number of skilled workers to meet the increasing demand.