KEENE, Texas — Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) and Weatherford College have announced a new academic partnership designed to create a streamlined pathway for Weatherford College nursing students to continue their education at SWAU.

Representatives from both institutions formally signed the agreement on September 3, 2026. The partnership provides eligible Weatherford College students with a clear pathway to continue their nursing education at SWAU, including opportunities to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and subsequently advance into Southwestern’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.

Under the agreement, eligible Weatherford College students are guaranteed admission to Southwestern Adventist University upon meeting established requirements, including completion of the application process, a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA, a current and unencumbered U.S. registered nursing license, and good academic and professional standing at the time of graduation from Weatherford College.

As part of the partnership, Southwestern will also provide Weatherford College students with access to graduate advising, financial aid guidance, and academic planning resources prior to enrollment, helping students prepare for a successful transition into the next stage of their nursing education.

“We are thrilled to begin this new partnership with Weatherford College,” said Dr. Kerrie Kimbrow, chair of the Nursing Department at Southwestern Adventist University. “This agreement creates a clear pathway for exceptional students to continue their education through our MSN program. We look forward to preparing these students to become the next generation of nurse educators.”

“We are very excited to have this opportunity for our students, whom we believe are well prepared to succeed in a graduate program,” said Dr. Tod Farmer, president of Weatherford College. “We have a culture of caring based on our core values of faith, hope, and love. This partnership with a Christian university is a natural progression for our students as they transition to the graduate level, continue to grow professionally, and embrace new academic challenges.”

Dr. Nelu Nedelea, president of Southwestern Adventist University, emphasized the broader significance of the partnership and the institutions’ shared commitment to developing future leaders.

“May this be the beginning of a strong and long-lasting partnership,” said Nedelea. “Throughout our 133-year history, our commitment has been to contribute to the excellence our partners are already providing to their students and to work alongside them in preparing the next generation of leaders—healthcare professionals, servants, church leaders, and so many others who will make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. It is truly an honor for us to be part of this journey and to build the future together.”

The agreement took effect September 3, 2026.

Weatherford College students interested in learning more about continuing their education at Southwestern Adventist University may contact SWAU Admissions at 817-202-6794 or admissions@swau.edu.

 

About Southwestern Adventist University

Founded in 1893, Southwestern Adventist University is a private Christian university located in Keene, Texas. SWAU is committed to inspiring knowledge, faith, and service through Christ-centered education while preparing students for lives of purpose, leadership, and service.