Illinois State University and Heartland Community College have announced a new articulation agreement designed to streamline the transfer process for students pursuing a an online bachelor’s degree in business administration. This partnership creates a clear academic pathway aimed at working adults to begin their coursework through Heartland and seamlessly transfer to Illinois State’s College of Business to complete their bachelor’s degree.
The agreement ensures that students who earn an Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree with a focus on Business Administration at Heartland can transfer up to 60 credit hours toward a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Illinois State University. Enrolled students will take two courses every eight weeks through the online program. The pathway outlines required coursework and recommended electives to promote timely graduation and minimize credit loss during the transfer process.
“We’re committed to providing accessible and affordable education that prepares students for long-term success,” said Dr. Ani Yazedjian, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost at Illinois State University. “This agreement not only reinforces that commitment, but it also strengthens our relationship with Heartland Community College and supports students in our region.”
The state of Illinois leads the nation in bachelor’s degree completion rates among community college transfer students. This new fully articulated pathway will be one of 72 agreements Illinois State offers across 30 different community colleges. Currently, 759 Heartland Community College courses are articulated with Illinois State.
“This partnership offers our students more flexibility and access with a direct and transparent route to a respected four-year business program,” added Dr. Keith Cornille, president of Heartland Community College. “This online option will help working learners, individuals who may face the barriers of a commute or childcare demands, and others in need of a more flexible schedule. It is another way we are partnering to provide a pathway for students to complete a degree at a leading public university.”
Students participating in this pathway will benefit from coordinated advising, ensuring a smooth transition between institutions. The articulation agreement goes into effect beginning with the Fall 2026 semester, and recruitment for the first cohort of Heartland students is already underway.
For more information about the articulation agreement and how to enroll, visit https://registrar.illinoisstate.edu/transfer/ or www.heartland.edu.
