ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. — College of The Albemarle (COA) and Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) have renewed their bilateral agreement, reaffirming a strong partnership that provides students with a seamless path from COA’s Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in General Business Administration to ECSU’s Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Business Administration.

The renewed agreement, effective August 1, 2025, through May 31, 2030, allows qualified COA graduates to transfer up to 65 semester hours toward their bachelor’s degree. The pathway supports students pursuing careers in management, entrepreneurship, and related business fields while expanding access to higher education and strengthening workforce development across northeastern North Carolina.

“This partnership provides a valuable bridge for students who begin their business studies at COA and wish to continue their education locally,” said Dr. Jack Bagwell, COA President. “By updating this agreement with ECSU, we’re ensuring students have a clear, affordable, and efficient path to complete their four-year degree while preparing to contribute to the economic growth and vitality of our region.”

“ECSU is proud to continue our collaboration with College of The Albemarle,” said Dr. S. Keith Hargrove, ECSU Chancellor. “Together, we’re providing students with the tools, guidance, and opportunities they need to achieve their academic and career goals. This agreement reflects our shared commitment to access, excellence, and the success of students who will lead and serve in communities throughout northeastern North Carolina.”

The renewed agreement reflects the continued collaboration between the two institutions to expand educational opportunities and support the success of students throughout northeastern North Carolina.

For more information about the General Business Administration program at College of The Albemarle, visit www.albemarle.edu. To learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program at Elizabeth City State University, visit www.ecsu.edu.

For all other COA-related information or media inquiries, contact Tammy W. Sawyer, COA Director of Communications and Marketing, at 252-335-0821 ext. 2420, or [email protected].

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About College of The Albemarle

College of The Albemarle (COA) serves as the regional community college for Northeastern North Carolina, fostering educational excellence at the heart of the communities we proudly serve. With a rich and expansive history, COA offers accessible, high-quality education to students across Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Pasquotank and Perquimans counties. Our four campuses, strategically located throughout the region, reflect our commitment to student success. At COA, we empower individuals, transforming lives and shaping the future of our region. Discover your potential with College of The Albemarle, where education meets opportunity.

About Elizabeth City State University 

Elizabeth City State University provides students with a high-quality, affordable education. A constituent member of the University of North Carolina System, ECSU develops courageous, resilient, and empowered leaders through excellent student-centered, experiential learning. ECSU offers baccalaureate, professional, and master’s degrees across a wide variety of disciplines. Come to Discover. Leave to Conquer. Visit www.ecsu.edu