Pierpont Community and Technical College and Salem University form Memorandum of Understanding

Pierpont Community and Technical College and Salem University have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will help students in the region advance their education and bolster the local workforce through seamless education pathways. The agreement will help remove barriers to education by creating flexible and accessible ways to pursue degrees.

According to an article on Pierpont Community and Technical College’s website, the college’s Interim President Dr. Michael Waide was quoted as saying of the partnership, “Partnerships like this one with Salem University are essential to expanding opportunity across our region. By creating affordable, clearly defined pathways into bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs, we are removing barriers for students, employees and families who want to continue their education while staying connected to the communities they serve.”

Waide added in his closing remarks at the February 17, 2026 signing ceremony, “For so many learners, the difference between starting and finishing is not ability — it’s structure, cost and clarity. By aligning advising, communicating clearly and removing barriers, we help students move from aspiration to completion. When institutions choose partnership over isolation, our students win and our region grows stronger. Together, we are building a more seamless educational ladder for north‑central West Virginia.”

The agreement between the two institutions will provide guaranteed admission for eligible applicants who are transferring from Pierpont Community and Technical College into Salem University. It also provides for the acceptance of up to 90 transfer credits and gives students access to credit for prior learning and discounted tuition rates due to the institutions’ partnership. Students can transfer for bachelor, graduate, and doctoral level degrees, as well as for noncredit programs that Salem University offers through its Integrative Health Institute or Workforce Education and Readiness Center.

Pierpont’s Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs David Beighley said of the agreement, “This is more than a transfer pathway — it is a promise of access. This agreement ensures that when our students complete an associate degree, industry credential, or workforce training program, they are not at the end of their journey — they are at a launch point. Our communities need seamless educational pathways and options that are flexible, affordable and aligned to workforce demand. Today’s signing reflects that spirit.”

Dr. Greg Kuhns, Salem University's Dean of Education, said, “Today represents more than the signing of an agreement — it is a shared promise to students, families and our broader community. By strengthening the pathway between Pierpont and Salem, we are creating clear, seamless transfer opportunities that reduce barriers and help students progress efficiently from associate to bachelor’s study and beyond. Partnerships like this expand access, align programs with workforce demand and ensure students are supported every step of the way.”

For more information about Pierpont Community and Technical College, visit the school’s website.