Halifax Community College and the University of North Carolina - Wilmington have a new transfer partnership through the UNCW PathWays Program, a guaranteed transfer admission pathway designed to expand access to higher education for community college students.

Through this agreement, HCC students who complete an Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Engineering, Associate in Applied Technology, Associate in Science in Teacher Preparation, or Associate in Arts in Teacher Preparation degree will be eligible for guaranteed admission to UNCW, provided they meet university admission requirements and policies.

The PathWays Program is part of UNCW’s commitment to strengthening transfer partnerships across the North Carolina Community College System and creating clear, supportive pathways for student success. 

While guaranteed admission does not apply to selective majors or professional programs, it provides students with confidence and clarity as they plan their academic futures.

Students accepted into the PathWays Program will receive a range of benefits, including personalized transfer coaching and pre-enrollment assistance from a UNCW Transfer Success Coordinator, a waived transfer application fee, priority consideration for transfer merit scholarships, and customized communication about deadlines, credit transfer, and campus opportunities. Participants will also have access to exclusive campus visits and events hosted by UNCW.

“This new agreement represents an incredibly meaningful opportunity for our students to continue their education with optimism and confidence due to the quality programs at UNCW,” said Dr. Levy Brown, vice president of academic and student success at Halifax Community College. “By partnering with UNC Wilmington, we are removing barriers, simplifying the transfer process, and creating a clear pathway for HCC students to pursue a bachelor’s degree. I appreciate every faculty and staff member who helped to bring this to fruition for our students."

To qualify for guaranteed admission, students must earn at least 24 transferable credit hours and apply by UNCW’s transfer priority deadline for their desired term. 

Students currently enrolled in high school are not eligible; however, Cooperative Innovative High School students may participate if they intend to apply as transfer students from a community college.

The agreement is effective through December 2028 and reflects a shared commitment by both institutions to increase transfer student enrollment and success. UNCW will provide annual progress reports to participating colleges as part of the partnership.

Students interested in the PathWays Program are encouraged to work with HCC advising staff and sign up through the UNCW admissions website