Nashville State Community College and Saint Joseph’s College of Maine Announce New Online Transfer Pathway in Theological Studies

Nashville State Community College and Saint Joseph’s College of Maine have established a new articulation agreement to help students seamlessly transition into a bachelor’s degree program in theological studies through a flexible, fully online format.

Under the agreement, graduates of Nashville State's School of Arts and Humanities who earn an Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Religious Studies can transfer their eligible credits directly into Saint Joseph’s College of Maine’s online Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Theological Studies program. To participate, students must meet Saint Joseph's standard admissions requirements and submit official academic transcripts for review.

"This agreement creates a seamless pathway for our religious studies graduates to continue their education, achieve their academic and professional goals, and earn a bachelor's degree," said Dr. Michael Sundblad, dean of the School of Arts and Humanities at Nashville State Community College.

Expanding Access to Faith-Based Higher Education

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine brings a rich legacy to the partnership, celebrating 50 years of distance education. Rooted in the Mercy tradition and the magisterium of the Catholic Church, its theology curriculum is designed to balance rigorous academic study with practical spiritual formation.

"The transfer partnership with Nashville State Community College into our online Bachelors of Arts in Theology program at Saint Joseph College marks a milestone in collaboration and affordability for those who are seeking a deeply spiritual and academic theological formation program," said Anne Chrzan, D. Min, Online Theology program director at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine. "Through this partnership, we are thrilled to welcome Nashville State graduates into our vibrant online learning community, expanding beyond the virtual classroom to encourage dialogue and pastoral practices through diverse perspectives. Together, we are creating a clear pathway for future ministry leaders and supporting students as they step into meaningful roles in faith and service."

Courses are taught by experienced faculty holding mandatums from the Bishop of Portland, combining high-level academic credentials with real-world pastoral and ministry experience.

Flexible Learning Built for Working Adults

Designed specifically to fit around work, family, and ministry commitments, the online B.A. in Theological Studies offers maximum flexibility:

• Flexible Schedule: Accelerated 8-week courses with revolving admissions start dates throughout the year.
• Practical Preparation: Coursework equips students to apply theology directly to contemporary leadership, ethics, ministry, and real-world challenges.
• Diverse Career Outcomes: Prepares graduates for careers in parish ministry, Catholic education, diocesan leadership, hospital chaplaincy, church management, faith formation, non-profit leadership, and more.
• Continued Advancement: Beyond the bachelor’s degree, Saint Joseph’s offers fast-track master’s degrees, graduate certificates, and post-master’s certificates for lifelong learners.

Students interested in learning more about the transfer pathway or exploring the B.A. in Theological Studies program can connect with the Saint Joseph's College Online Admissions team:

• Admissions Portal & Transfer Information: Saint Joseph's Transfer Agreements
• Schedule an Appointment: com/sjconline
• Phone: (800) 752-4723
• Email: onlineadmissions@sjcme.edu

To learn more about Nashville State’s transfer pathways and articulation agreements, please visit https://nscc.edu/current-students/transfer-options.php.        

About Nashville State Community College

Nashville State Community College, with seven campuses and online courses, provides high-quality, flexible, and affordable education to students across Middle Tennessee. Offering associate degrees, technical certificates, and seamless transfer pathways to four-year institutions, Nashville State equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the workforce or continue their academic journey. Learn more at nscc.edu.

About Saint Joseph’s College of Maine

Founded in 1912 by the Sisters of Mercy, Saint Joseph’s College of Maine (SJC) is the state’s only Catholic liberal arts college. SJC is a regionally accredited liberal arts institution delivering learner-centered education grounded in faith, service, and community. Celebrating 50 years of distance education, the College offers online undergraduate and graduate programs tailored for adult learners seeking to make a positive impact in their communities and professions.

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine offers more than 40 undergraduate programs and 21 Division III athletic teams for approximately 800 on-campus students, along with certificates, undergraduate, and graduate degrees to over 2,000 working adults online, both in the U.S. and internationally. Learn more at www.sjcme.edu.