
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 University
- Central State University
- Jackson State University
- Johnson C. Smith University
- Mississippi Valley State University
- Southern University at 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








