Austin Community College and Concordia University Texas announce ‘Rise at ACC, Shine at CTX’ transfer program

Initiative streamlines transfer process for ACC students pursuing bachelor’s degrees in arts, sciences, and business

Austin Community College District and Concordia University Texas announced a new program to provide ACC students with a seamless transition to a bachelor’s degree at Concordia Texas.

Available now for eligible students, the ‘Rise at ACC, Shine at CTX’ initiative offers clear transfer pathways, financial assistance, and personalized academic support, ensuring ACC students can efficiently complete their four-year degrees. University leaders from both institutions celebrated the announcement today on ACC’s campus during “ACC Transfer Week,” at the ACC Highland Campus.

“This partnership represents exactly what we want for our students—clear, accessible pathways to their future,” says ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart. “Too often, transfer students face unnecessary hurdles that cost them time, money, and momentum. ‘Rise at ACC, Shine at CTX’ breaks down those barriers, creating a seamless transition that supports students every step of the way. This kind of collaboration doesn’t just change academic journeys—it transforms lives. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who helped bring this partnership to life.”

Through the program, ACC students will be able to transfer into the following Concordia Texas degree programs with preestablished pathways:

• Bachelor of Applied Arts & Sciences
• Bachelor of Arts in communication
• Bachelor of Arts in psychology
• Bachelor of Arts in sociology
• Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting
• Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing
• Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in computer science

‘Rise at ACC, Shine at CTX’ allows students who pursued any major at ACC to transfer up to 90 credits toward a four-year degree at Concordia Texas, even if their program is not part of the pre-established pathways. The initiative will continue expanding with new pathways, ensuring more students have opportunities to build on their education.

Students will receive personalized support throughout their journey to and at Concordia Texas — from application to graduation. Services include one-on-one academic advising, financial aid counseling, and assistance navigating Concordia Texas’ resources and campus life.

“Concordia University Texas is excited to welcome ACC students through this enhanced transfer partnership,” Dr. Kristi Kirk, president and CEO of Concordia University Texas, said. “Our goal is to provide students with the resources and support they need to succeed, from the very moment they begin their academic journey at ACC. We are committed to making this process as seamless and accessible as possible.”

As long-standing pillars of higher education in Central Texas, Austin Community College and Concordia University Texas both play a role in equipping the local workforce with a steady pipeline of highly qualified graduates. About 36% of ACC students transfer annually to a four-year university to work toward their bachelor’s degree. For the 2023-2024 academic year, nearly 85% of Concordia Texas graduates were employed or enrolled in further education within six months of graduation, with 77% of graduates staying in Central Texas.