ORLANDO, Fla. — Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) and Valencia College have formalized a new articulation agreement designed to create more seamless pathways for Valencia students to earn bachelor’s degrees at FAMU.
At the center of the partnership is a strengthened 2+2 pathway that provides guaranteed admission to FAMU for eligible Valencia College Associate in Arts (AA) graduates and selected Associate in Science (AS) graduates into designated FAMU baccalaureate programs, consistent with university policies.
“We know that many students in Central Florida dream of attending FAMU, and we are thrilled to offer them a clear pathway to make that dream a reality,” said Valencia College President Kathleen Plinske. “Through this partnership, students can begin their college journey at Valencia and know that they have a guaranteed pathway to continue their education at FAMU. That kind of certainty is incredibly powerful for students and their families as they plan for the future.”
Under the agreement, Valencia students participating in the FAMU IGNITE Transfer Program must complete an AA degree or an identified AS degree and submit an IGNITE Transfer Program inquiry form before earning 30 credits to declare their intent to participate in the 2+2 pathway. The three-year agreement establishes a collaborative framework to increase access to public higher education, expand transfer opportunities and reduce the time required for students to complete associate and bachelor’s degrees. The agreement is effective for the 2025-26 academic year and extends through the conclusion of the 2027-28 academic year.
The agreement also provides a reverse transfer pathway, allowing eligible students who transfer to FAMU before completing their AA degree to have qualifying credits earned at FAMU transferred back to Valencia, upon student consent, so Valencia can award the associate degree when requirements have been met.
“At Florida A&M University, we believe access and excellence must go hand in hand. By working with Valencia College, we can help more students understand their pathway to a four-year degree, connect with FAMU earlier in their academic journey and ultimately position themselves for success in Florida’s workforce and beyond,” said FAMU President Marva B. Johnson, J.D. “This partnership demonstrates what is possible when institutions work together around a shared goal: helping students successfully move forward, complete their degrees and contribute to the communities they serve.”
Financial support and enhanced student services
The partnership goes beyond admission and transfer credit to provide additional support for students participating in the IGNITE program.
Under the agreement, eligible Valencia IGNITE students may receive FAMU scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, based on GPA and available funding. Students with a 3.3 FAMU-recalculated GPA may receive $1,000, while students with a 3.6 GPA or higher may receive $4,000. Additional eligibility requirements include participation in the IGNITE Program for at least one year, meeting the FAMU fall admission deadline and being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
The agreement also calls for enhanced support for Valencia students enrolled in identified transfer plans, including FAMU advisors who will work with Valencia students and advisors.
“Transfer success is not simply about moving credits from one institution to another; it is about creating a coordinated student experience,” said FAMU Provost Allyson Watson. “This agreement establishes a framework for our academic and student-support teams to work together earlier and more intentionally. Through advising, transfer planning and stronger alignment of academic pathways, we can help students make informed decisions about their education and stay on track toward degree completion.”
Academic pathways aligned with workforce needs
The agreement includes designated transfer pathways connecting Valencia College programs with FAMU bachelor’s degree programs including Health Science, Health Informatics and Information Management, Biological Sciences, Biology, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Biology Pre-Med/Pre-Dent, Chemistry, Chemistry-Biochemistry, Computer Science, Information Technology, Architectural Studies and Construction Engineering Technology, among others.
The institutions will also collaborate on faculty and student services, campus visits, recruitment activities and regular engagement between FAMU advisors and Valencia Success Coaches. The agreement calls for at least one annual “Presidents Day” activity at either institution to support recruitment and student engagement.
“As a FAMU alumna, I know firsthand the value of a FAMU education and what it means to become part of the Rattler community,” said Valencia College Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Roberta Carew. “What makes this partnership especially meaningful is that it goes beyond creating a pathway for students to transfer—it creates a more connected experience along the way.”
The agreement was signed by Johnson and Plinske and establishes a three-year framework that may be renewed by mutual written agreement.
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