Bay de Noc Community College (Bay College) and Northern Michigan University (NMU) have entered into a Direct Admission Program agreement designed to make the transition from community college to a bachelor’s degree more seamless for students across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
The three-year agreement, executed Sept. 16, 2026, establishes a formal pathway connecting Bay College students with NMU while they complete their studies at Bay. The program is intended to enhance access and affordability, eliminate barriers for transfer students, increase baccalaureate degree attainment, and strengthen connections between students and the NMU community.
Under the Direct Admission Program, students applying to Bay College will have the opportunity to indicate their intention to transfer to NMU in the future. Participation does not obligate a student to transfer to NMU. Students who participate will be admitted to NMU initially in a non-degree undergraduate status while concurrently enrolled at Bay.
Bay College President Dr. Nerita Hughes shared, "At Bay College, we believe partnerships like this are about removing barriers and creating clear pathways for students to achieve their educational goals. Our direct admission partnership with Northern Michigan University gives students the opportunity to begin their journey at Bay with the confidence of knowing there is a seamless pathway to continue their education at NMU. Most importantly, this partnership demonstrates what is possible when Upper Peninsula institutions work together to put students first, expand access, and strengthen the educational and economic vitality of our region."
The agreement gives participating students opportunities to establish a connection with NMU while still attending Bay College. Benefits include academic advising, an NMU identification card, access to a MyNMU account and NMU email address, access to select NMU events at student pricing, and participation or attendance in select NMU student life activities. Students will also receive one free official transcript from Bay College sent to NMU.
NMU President Dr. Chris Olsen stated, “NMU’s partnership with Bay College has been strong for many years, and we are excited to strengthen that connection with this new opportunity for Bay students. Providing access to Northern’s support services earlier in their academic journeys more easily facilitates their transition to NMU – and to earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree. It’s a well-designed pathway to their next level of credential that we’re proud to offer.”
Bay College Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Travis Blume, said, “This new collaboration between NMU and Bay College is exciting for students from across the Upper Peninsula. Through this partnership, Bay College and NMU have created a support system for students from their first day on campus through graduation from Bay College and NMU. Together, we will provide new opportunities for students, to help them achieve their dreams of higher education and better futures through this partnership.”
The Direct Admission Program is designed to help students plan their educational journey earlier and receive support throughout the transfer process. Students may change their program of study while attending Bay, and participation in the program does not prevent a student from transferring to NMU through the regular admissions process if they later choose to do so.
NMU Admissions Director Kari Garcia noted, “This partnership with Bay College is truly exciting. Bay offers exceptional preparation for students working towards a bachelor’s degree and through this direct admit partnership, students can receive supplemental advising support from NMU on day one of their education. These personalized supports and added perks mean Bay College students can immerse themselves in both the Bay College and NMU communities, creating a fully integrated transfer experience.”
The agreement reflects a shared commitment by Bay College and NMU to improve academic program articulation, promote student well-being, strengthen transfer student connections, and use resources at both institutions effectively.
For more information about the Direct Admission Program, contact Bay College Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Travis Blume at (906)217-4116 or travis.blume@baycollege.edu.
About Bay College
Bay College is the community’s college with a mission of: Student Success, Community
Success, and Culture of Success. Bay is devoted to each individual’s achievement in
the classroom, on-campus, online, in the community and into the workforce by providing career certificates, associate degrees, transferable university credits, industry certifications, trainings, and professional development programs which develop skillsets, enrich individuals, and advance careers. #BayIsTheWay
About Northern Michigan University
Northern Michigan University, located in Marquette, Michigan, is a dynamic four-year, public, comprehensive university
that has grown its reputation based on its award-winning leadership programs, cutting-edge
technology initiatives, and nationally recognized academic programs.