New Collaboration Between Mississippi State University and University of North Georgia Enhances Poultry Science Education

Mississippi State University (MSU) has partnered with the University of North Georgia (UNG) to expand educational pathways in poultry science, a field that requires young professionals to meet industry demands. This collaboration presents an exciting opportunity for students to pursue advanced studies in an essential agricultural sector.

Seamless Transition for Students

In a recent signing ceremony, MSU President Mark E. Keenum and UNG Provost Chaudron Gille established a memorandum of agreement that facilitates a streamlined path for students. Those who complete an associate degree in UNG’s agriculture-poultry science program will be able to transfer their credits to MSU’s well-respected poultry science undergraduate program. This arrangement indicates MSU’s commitment to creating inter-institutional collaborations that benefit students and the agriculture industry.

The innovative 2+2 program offers a structured approach, allowing students to complete the first two years of their academic journey at UNG and then transition to MSU for the final two years. MSU’s poultry science program is one of only six in the United States, highlighting its significance in cultivating future leaders in the field.

A Win-Win for Students and Institutions

President Keenum remarked, “Mississippi State is a national leader in poultry science education and research, and we take pride in being one of the most transfer-friendly universities. This 2+2 agreement underscores our dedication to supporting the poultry industry, which is vital to our region and the nation at large.”

The agreement eliminates common issues associated with credit transfer, thus reducing barriers that often delay graduation and increase student expenses. This model has been successfully implemented with various Mississippi community colleges and is customized to meet the needs of students in Georgia.

Building Future Talent

Linda Purvis, associate professor in biology and director of poultry science at UNG, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “I believe this will greatly benefit both UNG students and MSU, and I look forward to expanding this partnership. Our students will gain an incredible opportunity to continue their education in an environment focused on poultry science.”

Jessica Wells, an assistant teaching instructor in poultry science at MSU, also highlighted the industry’s demand for talent. “Currently, there are about 115 poultry science graduates each year from all six universities, which is significantly less than the more than 600 jobs the industry aims to fill annually.”

A Model for Future Collaborations

As part of its long-term vision, MSU intends to replicate this educational model with other community colleges and agricultural programs nationwide. Ken Macklin, professor and head of MSU’s Department of Poultry Science, noted, “We’re thrilled to launch this 2+2 program, providing UNG students with an accessible path to earning their degree from MSU while leveraging the strengths of both institutions.”

Learn More

For further details, explore the MSU Department of Poultry Science within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at www.poultry.msstate.edu. Additionally, UNG’s Department of Poultry offers information online at www.ung.edu/degrees/associate/agriculture-poultry-science-pathway.php.

Mississippi State University is dedicated to addressing what matters. Discover more at www.msstate.edu.

Source: Mississippi State University