UNI and Kirkwood Community College come together to offer 2+2 music degree

UNI and Kirkwood Community College come together to offer 2+2 music degree

UNI and Kirkwood faculty members and students at 2+2 articulation agreement signing
In the center from left to right: Fred Kiser, Kirkwood Associate Professor of Music, Jennifer Bradley, Kirkwood Vice President of Academic Affairs, Jennifer Cunningham, Kirkwood Dean of Arts & Humanities, and Melinda Boyd, Interim Director of UNI School of Music are joined by Kirkwood music students.

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – In a groundbreaking move within the realm of music education, the University of Northern Iowa School of Music and Kirkwood Community College have proudly entered into a unique partnership allowing students to complete a Bachelor of Arts in Music. A 2+2 articulation agreement opens doors for students to seamlessly transition from an Associate of Applied Arts in Music at Kirkwood to a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts in Music at UNI, fostering a well-rounded and enriched musical education. 

“This pathway allows students to achieve their goal through two years at Kirkwood followed by two years at UNI," said Melinda Boyd, Interim Director of the School of Music at UNI. “The 2+2 articulation agreement stands as a testament to the forward-thinking approach of both institutions and their dedication to enhancing educational opportunities in the field of music.”

"This exciting new partnership increases the opportunities for our music students to transfer," said Kirkwood Dean of Arts & Humanities Jennifer Cunningham. "Kirkwood students will now have the opportunity to start their music career path at Kirkwood and easily transfer to UNI who is well known for producing quality musicians and educators. This articulation will save students thousands of dollars on their post-secondary education and know that they are transferring to a school that has a very high rate of career placement after graduation."

While administrators at both institutions have been interested in a partnership for years, the articulation agreement is now made possible through UNIFI – leveraging the University of Northern Iowa's general education requirements, which are designed to offer students increased flexibility in tailoring their academic journey to align with their individual goals. 

The partnership emphasizes the importance of collaborative initiatives in higher education. Faculty and staff at both institutions are dedicated to finding additional transfer pathways for the benefit of our mutual students. 

The 2+2 music degree program reflects a commitment to student success, providing a navigable path for aspiring musicians to cultivate their talents and achieve their academic and professional aspirations. For more information please visit admissions.uni.edu/transfer.