Arkansas State University-Mountain Home and Southern Arkansas University Sign Transfer Agreement for Future Educators

Arkansas State University-Mountain Home (ASUMH) and Southern Arkansas University (SAU) have entered into a new partnership designed to create a seamless pathway for students pursuing careers in education.

The partnership agreement establishes a transfer pathway allowing students who earn an Associate of Science in Education from ASUMH to transfer directly into SAU’s Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education K-6 STEM program with full junior classification.

The agreement aims to facilitate transfer and degree completion opportunities while providing students with a clear and efficient pathway to earning both degrees. Through collaboration between the two institutions, the partnership will help future educators continue their education while remaining connected to the communities they serve.

“The Vision of Arkansas State University-Mountain Home is Creating Opportunities - Changing Lives,” said Dr. Robert Shurley, Provost at ASUMH. “Bachelor's degree level partnerships, like this one, are concrete examples of the University workings towards our vision. This MOU with SAU will make Education more attainable for future educators in our area without leaving the communities they care about. Thanks to the hard work of our Program Director, Mrs. Laura Knox, our Dean of Business, Arts & Sciences, Mrs. Kristina Radivojevich, and the Department of Teacher Education at SAU this will add another clear, affordable pathway to strengthen our local school systems, and build the future educator workforce right here in North Central Arkansas. Keeping local talent local.”

“Southern Arkansas University is proud to partner with Arkansas State University–Mountain Home to create a seamless and affordable pathway for future educators,” said Dr. Robin Sronce, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at SAU. “This collaboration expands access to bachelor’s degree completion while supporting the preparation of teachers who will serve and strengthen their local communities. As the demand for skilled professionals continues to grow, the role of well-prepared educators—particularly in STEM fields—is essential to building a strong workforce and shaping Arkansas’s future for generations to come.”

The partnership reflects a shared commitment between ASUMH and SAU to provide accessible, high-quality educational opportunities while addressing the growing need for qualified educators throughout Arkansas.

For more information about the Associate of Science in Education program at ASUMH or transfer opportunities through this agreement, contact Laura Knox at lknox@asumh.edu or 870.508.6263.