FITCHBURG — Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) students seeking a traditional residential college experience will soon be able to live on the Fitchburg State University campus, under a new agreement between the two institutions.
The agreement was signed May 6 during a ceremony at Herlihy Hall, a recently renovated residence building on Fitchburg State’s campus. According to a press release issued that day by Fitchburg State University, the memorandum of understanding (MOU) allows MWCC students to live in Fitchburg State dorms, access the university’s facilities, and participate in student life activities while continuing to take courses at MWCC and paying its lower tuition rate.
“This MOU marks more than a housing arrangement,” Fitchburg State President Donna Hodge said at the signing. “It reflects a shared commitment to access, affordability, and opportunity for the students of North Central Massachusetts.”
MWCC President James Vander Hooven praised the partnership as an example of the collaborative culture that exists among the region’s public higher education institutions. “There is no other way forward in North Central Massachusetts than for our institutions to work together—for our students’ needs and our regional workforce’s needs,” he said.
The Community College Housing Program was developed to provide MWCC students with on-campus housing and added support as they pursue associate degrees, with the option to transition smoothly to a four-year college. Students will receive academic and social support from staff at both institutions and have access to Fitchburg State’s full range of services, including the Amelia V. Gallucci-Cirio Library, Recreation Center, clubs, speaker series, and intramural athletics.
Photo Credit: Christian Phillips & Charles Mayer
To qualify, students must take at least six credits at MWCC, maintain a 2.0 GPA, remain in good financial and conduct standing, clear a CORI/SORI background check, and accept Fitchburg State’s housing contract and fees. Public transportation connects both campuses, though officials recommend students have access to a vehicle.
Several students from Mount Wachusett Community College toured the Fitchburg State campus following Tuesday’s signing ceremony.
More information about the Community College Housing Program is available at:
https://fitchburgstate.edu/campus-life/housing-and-residential-services/living-campus/community-college-housing-program
