Idaho State University and College of Southern Idaho To Collaborate for Streamlined Transfer

Idaho State University and College of Southern Idaho will be working together to further strengthen transfer opportunities for students as part of a national professional development initiative. 

The institutions were chosen by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities and the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program to participate in the Transfer Student Success Intensive, a yearlong opportunity to learn about research and current practices in creating transfer pathways, making it easier for students from all backgrounds to smoothly transition from community college to earning a bachelor’s degree. 

“The Transfer Intensive is a hands-on program that gives institutions research and proven practices that help them reimagine and improve their transfer pathways,” said Tania LaViolet, director of research and innovation at the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. “Through this initiative, we are helping institutions address systemic barriers and develop actionable plans that if implemented, should improve transfer rates and bachelor’s degree attainment for students who begin at community colleges.”

ISU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Adam Bradford said the program is an opportunity to continue to ensure that all Idaho students have the opportunity to meet their educational goals, as well as continue to meet statewide workforce needs. In October, the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding, which includes expanding the nursing and medical laboratory science programs in Twin Falls to meet growing needs and streamlined advising and academic support. 

“We are honored to have been selected in partnership with our sister institution, the College of Southern Idaho, to participate in this remarkable program," Bradford said. "Through it, we will create significant opportunities for students across the region and the state to seamlessly continue their educational journey as they transition from CSI to ISU, including in key workforce areas such as health care and education.”

Idaho State University and College of Southern Idaho will be a part of a cohort of 10 teams composed of individuals from 10 four-year institutions and 13 community colleges, representing 10 states. These partnerships will work collaboratively over the next year to create sustainable transfer reform strategies tailored to their institutional and student needs.Since its inception in 2021, the Transfer Intensive has worked with 91 colleges–including 41 AASCU members–impacting over 16,000 transfer students across 23 states.