Thiel, LTI sign agreement on certificate and bachelor’s degree completion programs

Posted February 02, 2024 Print

GREENVILLE, Pa.-- Thiel College and Laurel Technical Institute have signed an agreement that opens the pathway for students in the business and culinary programs to move from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree and for Thiel students to earn a culinary arts certificate.

In their junior year or senior year, Thiel College students can pursue a culinary arts certificate through Laurel Technical Institute. Laurel Technical Institute Associate of Arts degree graduates can transfer to Thiel College and complete a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science program at Thiel College.

Thiel College also agreed to accept Associate of Arts in accounting graduates into Thiel College’s bachelor’s degree in accounting or business administration (marketing and advertising track) majors. The agreement said the arrangement will aid students as they plot their academic path. Guaranteed admission in the accounting or business administration programs allows students to pre-plan their college careers and not have to worry about the transfer process, according to the agreement.

“This innovative collaboration marks a significant step towards providing enhanced educational opportunities for graduates of technical schools. We recognize the valuable skills and expertise cultivated in technical programs, and by guaranteeing admission to Thiel, we aim to bridge the gap between vocational training and academic advancement,” Thiel College Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College Greg Q. Butcher, Ph.D. said. “In addition to the seamless transition for LTI graduates pursuing a bachelor’s degree, we are excited to announce an exciting opportunity for our bachelor’s degree students to earn a culinary arts certificate. This unique cross-disciplinary initiative allows our students to explore and enhance their culinary skills, providing a well-rounded education that combines academic excellence with practical expertise in the culinary arts, opening up new avenues for their career prospects.”