Brenau University and North Georgia Technical College signed an agreement to help associate degree graduates pursue bachelor’s degrees in psychology at Brenau.
Graduates of the Associate of Applied Science in social work assistant program can seamlessly transition into Brenau’s Bachelor of Science in psychology program offered through the Lynn J. Darby School of Psychology and Adolescent Counseling. The goal of the new academic agreement is to support student success while addressing the state’s ongoing mental healthcare workforce shortages.
“I am thankful for the leadership of Interim President Michele Shirley and her faculty for joining Brenau University in creating new pathways that provide Georgians opportunities to secure educational credentials leading to advancement in their careers,” Brenau President David L. Barnett said. “Because of her leadership, our recent articulation agreement with North Georgia Technical College provides an accelerated program for graduates of their social work program to continue their studies at Brenau. This agreement will be beneficial for students and for those across the region who need mental healthcare.”
Access to mental healthcare lags across the nation and is especially critical in much of northeast Georgia.
Georgia ranks near the bottom nationally in access to mental health care and mental health care for adults, according to the nonprofit Mental Health America. As of 2026, 151 of Georgia’s 159 counties are officially designated as having a shortage of mental health providers, according to the Rural Health Information Hub. Nationally, the employment of counselors in substance abuse, behavioral disorders, and mental health is expected to grow 17% through 2034, with about 48,300 annual job openings, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
“We are excited to partner with Brenau University to create seamless pathways for North Georgia Technical College students to continue their education and achieve their goals,” Michele Shirley, interim president of NGTC, said. “This agreement expands opportunities, supports student success, and reflects our shared commitment to accessible, high-quality education for the communities we serve.”
The partnership supports student success by improving access to advanced credentials and reducing unnecessary course duplication.
“Brenau is excited about this new partnership that provides an efficient pathway to address the concerning shortages in mental healthcare,” James C. Eck, Ph.D., Brenau’s provost and vice president of academic affairs, said. “The partnership between North Georgia Tech and Brenau University ensures that students have a strong foundation in helping the community, coupled with the necessary knowledge to help serve the mental health needs of the region.”
Under the agreement, both institutions will provide academic advising to help students navigate the transition and will periodically collaborate to ensure programs remain aligned with industry standards.
“This agreement reflects our shared commitment to helping students reach their educational and career goals,” said NGTC Vice President of Academic Affairs Stephanie Benson. “By creating a clear transfer pathway, we are reducing barriers and opening more opportunities for students to gain additional knowledge as they prepare for career opportunities in psychology and social services.”
