Mississippi University for Women, DeSoto County Schools sign MOU
HERNANDO, Miss. — Mississippi University for Women and DeSoto County Schools have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to launch eight career pathway programs, expanding affordable dual enrollment opportunities for local high school students.
University President Nora Miller and Superintendent Cory Uselton formalized the agreement Monday, Dec. 1, during a ceremony at DeSoto County Schools.
“DeSoto County Schools is always seeking innovative ways to increase opportunities for our students,” Uselton said. “Partnering with Mississippi University for Women allows us to provide even more pathways for students to begin their postsecondary journey with confidence.”
Miller said the collaboration will give students “an affordable path to their college success” while allowing them to explore career interests early.
Under the agreement, tuition for courses in The W’s Dual Enrollment Pathways will be fully covered by university scholarships. Other dual enrollment and dual credit courses will be offered at a reduced partner school rate.
The eight career pathways include business, education, nursing, leadership and career readiness, culinary arts, healthcare, and educator career tech programs. Each pathway consists of three courses designed to preview career options while meeting degree requirements, saving students time and money.
Dr. Scott Tollison, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, said the partnership aligns with workforce needs across Mississippi. “These pathways provide DCS’s talented students with rigorous academic preparation and an early start in programs aligned with the critical workforce needs of our state,” he said.
Sara Jane Russell, DCS director of high schools, highlighted the health sciences track. “Through this partnership, our students will now have access to MUW’s pre-nursing coursework—an incredible opportunity for them to experience rigorous, university-level classes and get an early start on their healthcare careers,” she said.
Eligibility requirements include junior or senior classification, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and at least one ACT or SAT attempt with a composite score of 16 or higher. Sophomore students may qualify with a 3.0 GPA and a minimum ACT score of 30 or equivalent SAT score.
Dual enrollment courses through the partnership will begin in spring 2026.
