Affiliation Agreement Signed with European University

In the spirit of promoting international opportunities for higher education, Nichols College President, Dr. Debra M. Townsley, and European University President, Dr. Dirk Craen, signed an affiliation agreement on June 22nd in which students who qualify to be admitted to an MBA program at Nichols, may study and earn transferable course credits at the European University, and vice versa. Therefore, both accredited institutions agree to recognize each other's courses, certificates and degrees.

President Townsley presented President Craen with a crystal bison (Nichols mascot) at a faculty reception held on August 30th and commended his leadership in helping to establish the program and promote cultural sensitivity between business students across the Atlantic.

Both institutions have distance learning programs and traditional classes at various locations. Nichol College is based in Dudley, Massachusetts and the European University is based in Montreux, Switzerland.

To earn a Nichols MBA degree, students must successfully complete a defined program of study which includes a combination of a least ten Nichols courses and five European University courses. Student must successfully complete and earn forty-five credits, with an overall grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Foreign students enrolling in the program must comply with Nichols international student admission requirements.

In April 2006, Nichols College was one of the few to receive International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE) accreditation for its business and business-related degree programs. "We are pleased to be recognized by IACBE," states President Townsley, "and feel confident that the accreditation further demonstrates the ability of Nichols College to meet the high expectations of students and employers."

Academically, Nichols business programs are increasingly emphasizing leadership and scholarly activities surrounding global issues, and in spring 2008, Nichols students will have an opportunity to travel to China to see international business first hand.