New Partnership Offers Local Path to Four-Year Degrees

Students in central Wisconsin now have a new way to work toward a four-year degree without leaving the area.

Northcentral Technical College and UW-Stevens Point are teaming up through the Purple and Blue Advantage program. About 300 students have either enrolled or expressed interest.Students from both schools are taking classes at NTC’s main campus, with UW-Stevens Point students using facilities throughout the campus, including the Health Sciences Building and A-Wing.The partnership gives students access to shared laboratories, academic support and extracurricular activities while allowing them to remain enrolled at their respective schools.

The goal is to make a four-year degree more affordable and accessible while creating a smoother transition for students moving from two-year programs into bachelor’s degree programs.The arrangement follows the closure of UW-Stevens Point’s Wausau campus in May.

Officials say the local setup also gives students the opportunity to work while attending college. About 70 percent of NTC students attend part time.

Students interested in the Purple and Blue Advantage can still apply online through October.