WHEELING, W.Va., April 10, 2025 – West Virginia Northern Community College (WVNCC) and West Liberty University (WLU) have entered into a collaborative Enrollment and Guaranteed Admission Agreement, providing students with a seamless pathway to continue their education. This collaboration, known as the “Thundering Hilltoppers” program, will enhance transfer opportunities and academic success for WVNCC graduates from three WVNCC programs linked directly to four-year degrees at WLU.

Under this agreement, students who earn an Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Science (A.S.), or Board of Governors Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree from WVNCC with a minimum 2.0 GPA are guaranteed admission to WLU. Additionally, students who apply to and are admitted into these programs at WVNCC will be considered jointly enrolled at WLU, with the option to opt out at any time.

Key Benefits of the Agreement:

• Guaranteed admission to WLU for eligible WVNCC graduates earning an Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Science (A.S.), or Board of Governors Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree
• Acceptance of up to 72 transferable credits toward a bachelor’s degree at WLU.
• Access to WLU student benefits and joint WVNCC-WLU events through the “Thundering Hilltoppers” program.
• Reverse transfer opportunities for students who transfer to WLU before completing their associate degree at WVNCC.
• Streamlined advising and coordination between institutions to support student success.

“This agreement enhances our ability to provide affordable and accessible higher education options for students,” said WVNCC President Dr. Daniel Mosser. “By working jointly with WLU, we are providing a clearer and more efficient pathway to a four-year WLU student experience and a cost-efficient degree through Northern.”

WLU President Dr. Tim Borchers echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are thankful for our partnership with WVNCC and what it means for students in the greater Wheeling community. Through this arrangement, we hope to increase opportunities for local residents to complete their college degree. New online offerings at WLU will expand these opportunities as well.”

Representatives from WVNCC and WLU will meet annually to review the program, plan events, and assess its impact on student success. The agreement will remain in effect for three years, with opportunities for renewal and modification as needed.

For more information about the Thundering Hilltoppers program and transfer opportunities, students can visit www.wvncc.edu or www.westliberty.edu.

West Virginia Northern Community College’s mission is to educate and empower individuals to achieve academic and career goals, leading to a highly skilled, well-rounded, and accomplished workforce which successfully competes and adapts in a global economy. The College responds to the needs of the region it serves by offering a high-quality learning environment that is accessible, safe, and accommodating while nurturing teamwork and community service. Founded in 1972, WVNCC is comprised of three campuses situated in New Martinsville, Weirton and Wheeling.

West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.