NEWS

CMU, Lansing Community College partner for Central Bound

Agreement creates a new pathway to a bachelor’s degree

| Author: Ari Harris | Media Contact: Aaron Mills

Central Michigan University and Lansing Community College today announced a partnership to help more Michigan students achieve their bachelor’s degree.  

Central Bound is a unique dual-admission and co-enrollment agreement between the two institutions designed to make earning a four-year degree more flexible, affordable and convenient for students. 

Kaleb Patrick, interim vice president of CMU Innovation & Online, said the partnership is unique among community college/university transfer agreements because Central Bound provides students CMU status and access to CMU services right away. 

"From day one, Central Bound students are considered both CMU and LCC students, and they can take advantage of courses and services at both institutions," Patrick said.  “They can choose to take up to two years of classes at LCC and then take classes at CMU, or they can complete classes at both institutions at the same time. In both cases, they are considered active CMU Chippewas from the very first day – they are never 'transfer students.'" 

Students interested in the program will apply at both LCC and CMU and will have access to financial aid throughout their academic journey. The program is open to prospective students and students currently enrolled at LCC and CMU. 

"Central Bound powerfully demonstrates the strength of partnership," LCC President Steve Robinson said. "This agreement is about opening doors, eliminating obstacles, and providing every student with the resources necessary to succeed academically and beyond."

Four people, including CMU's president and provost, stand in front of a projector screen
From Left to Right: CMU President Neil MacKinnon, CMU Provost Paula Lancaster, LCC President Steve Robinson and LCC Provost Sally Welch.

Central Bound participants also have the option to complete their CMU classes on the university’s Mount Pleasant campus or through CMU Online, depending on their major, which provides additional flexibility, Patrick said. 

LCC is the first Michigan community college to partner with CMU on the Central Bound program, but Patrick said he believes this will be a model for partnerships with other institutions. 

"The Central Bound model provides a unique pathway to degree attainment that can make the transition to a four-year college smoother," Patrick said. "It can simplify conversations with academic advisors, help to manage tuition costs, and provide connections with outstanding student support services that help students achieve their academic and personal goals."

Enrollment for the Central Bound program begins in Fall 2026. More information and an FAQ are available on the Central Bound webpage.

View latest news