HBCU Pathway

HBCU Pathway

Begin Your Journey at WCC. Finish Strong at an HBCU.

The HBCU Pathway at Washtenaw Community College (WCC) is designed to help students make a smooth, affordable transition from high school to a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) after earning an associate degree.

By starting at WCC, students can save thousands on tuition while building a strong academic foundation before transferring to an HBCU where they can continue their education in a community that celebrates culture, leadership and belonging. Combining WCC's affordable tuition with competitive HBCU transfer opportunities helps students and families reduce the overall cost of earning a bachelor's degree, without sacrificing quality or opportunity.

Each year, more than 20,000 students choose WCC for its exceptional value, dedicated faculty, and student-centered learning environment. Whether you prefer online, in-person, or hybrid classes, you will have access to high-quality instruction, personalized support, and resources designed to help you succeed every step of the way.

Start at WCC. Transfer with confidence. Thrive at an HBCU.

Partner Schools

alabama A&M
alabama state
central state university
jackson state university
john c smith university
mississippi valley state university
southern university new orleans
tuskegee university

Program Benefits

  • Guaranteed admission into most partner schools
  • Access to in-state tuition & scholarships at several partner schools
  • Completion and acceptance of general education requirements upon transfer
  • Opportunities to connect with HBCU representatives

HBCU Connection Series

Connect. Explore. Transfer.

Join Washtenaw Community College’s HBCU Connection Series and connect directly with representatives from Historically Black Colleges and Universities!

Learn more about:

  • Academic programs
  • Transfer opportunities
  • Admissions requirements
  • Scholarships and financial aid
  • Campus life
  • Student resources and support

2026–2027 HBCU Connection Series Schedule

Time: 12:00–1:30 p.m. Eastern Time
Format: HBCU Representatives: Virtual | WCC Students: In-person
Location: Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor, MI

  • October 23, 2026 – Jackson State University | LA 140
  • December 4, 2026 – Alabama State University | GL 202
  • January 22, 2027 – Mississippi Valley State University | GL 202
  • February 5, 2027 – Tuskegee University | GL 202
  • February 19, 2027 – To Be Announced
  • March 26, 2027 – To Be Announced
  • April 9, 2027 – To Be Announced
  • April 23, 2027 – To Be Announced

Specific room locations for the remaining sessions will be shared once confirmed.

Explore your transfer options and discover what an HBCU can offer you!

HBCU Legends

Alabama State University

Rickey Smiley (1992): Nationally Syndicated Radio Host / Comedian / Television Personality

Ralph David Abernathy (1950): Civil Rights Leader

Tuskegee University

Tom Joyner (1970): Radio Personality / Philanthropist

Lonnie Johnson: NASA Engineer / Inventor of the Super Soaker

Jackson State University

Walter Payton (1975): NFL Hall of Fame Running Back / Super Bowl Champion

Rod Paige (1955): Former U.S. Secretary of Education

Mississippi Valley State University

Jerry Rice (1984): NFL Hall of Fame Wide Receiver / Three-time Super Bowl Champion

Willie Totten (1986): College Football Hall of Fame Quarterback / Former Head Coach

Central State University

Joyce Beatty (1972): U.S. Congresswoman / Former Ohio House Minority Leader

Omarosa M. Newman (1996): Television Personality / Former White House Aide

Souther University at New Orleans

Dr. Joseph Bouie Jr.: Former Louisiana State Senator / University Chancellor

Dr. Brenda Wesley Jackson: Higher Education Administrator / SUNO Living Legend

Alabama A&M

Ruben Studdard: Grammy-nominated R&B Singer / Winner of American Idol Season 2 (2003).

John Stallworth (1974): NFL Hall of Fame Wide Receiver / Four-time Super Bowl Champion

Johnson C. Smith University

Dorothy Counts-Scoggins (1964): Civil Rights Pioneer / School Desegregation Activist

John T. Crawford (1960): Educator / Civic Leader

Want to Learn More?

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Prospective Student Current Student Community Member

"Even as a WTMC (Washtenaw Technical Middle College) student, the WCC HBCU Pathway Program opened opportunities I never imagined. Thanks to the team’s unwavering dedication to student success and support, I’m now a proud HBCU graduate with two bachelor’s degrees!"
- Elizabeth Perryman, Central State Alum

"WCC HBCU Pathway prepared me for college success and gave me the confidence to pursue opportunities beyond Michigan. Thanks to the program, I earned my bachelor's degree, now work at Jackson State University, and I am continuing my master's degree. I will always be grateful for the guidance that led me to JSU where we lovingly say 'Thee I Love!'"
- Zaria Miller, JSU Office of Community Engagement, Community Planner and Alum

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