NRCC News

NRCC signs articulation agreement with George Mason University to expand cyber security pathways

Feb 17 2026

New River Community College (NRCC) signed an articulation agreement with George Mason University (GMU) recently at NRCC’s Christiansburg location, creating a new 2+2 transfer pathway for students pursuing careers in cyber security.

Through the agreement, students who complete NRCC’s information technology cyber security specialization associate of applied science degree will be able to transfer seamlessly into GMU’s bachelor of applied science degree in cyber security. The partnership allows students to continue their education without leaving the New River Valley, as the GMU program is offered in both in-person and fully online formats. Eligible students may also qualify for tuition-free attendance through the Mason Virginia Promise Grant (MVP), a last-dollar award that closes any remaining financial gaps for standard undergraduate tuition after all other gift aid has been applied, further increasing access and affordability.

Darren Troxler, Executive Director of Academic Alliances at GMU, attended the event on behalf of GMU.
 
“This agreement reflects our belief that students should never have to choose between career preparation and the opportunity to transfer,” said NRCC President Robert Brandon. “Under this partnership, students can use our program as a launch point into employment, into a bachelor's degree, or into both, and it reflects our ongoing commitment to open as many doors as possible for our students.”

NRCC is the first community college in its region of the Commonwealth of Virginia to establish this specific cyber security pathway with GMU, although similar pathways exist at other Virginia community colleges.
As part of the partnership, GMU will provide one-on-one advising to NRCC students to support a smooth transition. To be eligible, students must successfully complete the NRCC degree with grades of C or better in all required coursework.

The agreement underscores NRCC’s ongoing efforts to expand transfer opportunities and strengthen partnerships that meet regional workforce needs, particularly in high-demand, technology-driven fields like cyber security.

For more information about NRCC’s information technology programs, visit www.nr.edu/it.