Fort Scott Community College Joins FHSU in New Guaranteed Admission Program for Psychology Students
By Interim President Sara Sutton
FORT SCOTT, Kan. – Fort Scott Community College (FSCC) is excited to announce its participation in a new guaranteed admission pathway for psychology students in partnership with Fort Hays State University (FHSU) and Kansas’ network of 19 community colleges. This agreement ensures a seamless transition for FSCC students from an associate degree in psychology to FHSU’s bachelor’s degree programs in clinical or school psychology. Additionally, students who meet academic requirements will be guaranteed acceptance into FHSU’s master’s programs in these high-demand fields.
FSCC Interim President Sara Sutton expressed enthusiasm for the new opportunity, highlighting its impact on students and communities in Kansas. “At FSCC, we are committed to creating pathways that empower our students to reach their full potential. This agreement with Fort Hays State University provides a remarkable opportunity for students to pursue advanced degrees in psychology while addressing our state’s critical shortage of mental health professionals. We are thrilled to be part of a solution that benefits both our students and our communities.”
This initiative is crucial, as Kansas faces significant shortages in clinical and school psychology professionals, particularly in rural areas. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Kansas has a student-to-school psychologist ratio exceeding 1,100 to 1. Additionally, a 2023 Mental Health America study ranked Kansas last in the nation for access to mental health resources, emphasizing the need for more trained clinical psychologists. This pathway agreement provides a structured and accessible option for students to enter the field and make a lasting impact.
Under the agreement, FSCC students who complete an associate degree with an emphasis in psychology, meet relevant experience requirements, and fulfill FHSU’s admission criteria will be granted guaranteed acceptance into the university’s bachelor’s program. Furthermore, students maintaining a 3.5 GPA or higher at both the associate and bachelor’s levels will receive guaranteed admission to FHSU’s Master of Science in Clinical or School Psychology programs. Those not meeting the GPA requirement are still encouraged to apply for the graduate program through the standard admissions process.
One of the unique aspects of this pathway program is its flexibility. FHSU will offer courses in both online and on-campus formats, ensuring that students who cannot relocate to Hays still have access to high-quality education and hands-on training. This model allows students to continue working and contributing to their local communities while earning their degrees.
“As a community college, our mission is to support students at every step of their educational journey,” Sutton said. “This partnership with FHSU reflects FSCC’s dedication to providing clear, affordable, and accessible academic pathways that lead to meaningful careers. We encourage our students to take advantage of this opportunity and look forward to seeing them excel in psychology.”
For more information on the guaranteed admission program in psychology, FSCC students are encouraged to speak with their academic advisors or visit the FSCC website.
Fort Scott Community College is proud to be part of this transformative initiative, which ensures that students have a direct route to advanced education and rewarding careers in psychology.