Mercyhurst University, Saint Joseph Academy announce new articulation agreement


Mercyhurst University and Saint Joseph Academy (SJA) in Cleveland, Ohio, have established an articulation agreement to make the higher education transition process more efficient for high-achieving high school students. Signed by Mercyhurst President Kathleen A. Getz, Ph.D., and SJA Principal Jeff Sutliff, this agreement strengthens students’ educational experiences and provides academic opportunities.
SJA students completing certain courses through the Advanced Placement (AP) program can receive college credits with an earned grade of B or better, regardless of their AP exam scores. This agreement allows students to get a head start on their university education, potentially reducing their time and cost spent to complete a degree. Mercyhurst recognizes approximately 15 Saint Joseph Academy AP courses.
“We are proud of this agreement with Saint Joseph Academy,” said Dr. Getz. “It allows us to provide a value proposition to both SJA students and parents. Their AP courses are rigorous, and articulating college credit for B grades in AP courses, regardless of the AP exam score, recognizes that rigor and helps these bright young women save both time and money.”
SJA President Mrs. Kathryn H. Purcell shared similar thoughts: “Saint Joseph Academy is proud to partner with Mercyhurst University to expand opportunities for our students who pursue Advanced Placement coursework. This agreement affirms the rigor of our AP program and provides our students with a clear, seamless pathway to earn college credit while in high school. We are grateful to Mercyhurst University for its commitment to fostering academic excellence and supporting our students as they prepare to succeed in higher education and beyond.”
This articulation agreement is part of Mercyhurst’s broader strategy to build strong relationships with secondary education institutions and attract top-tier students. It also highlights the university’s dedication to providing its students with exceptional educational pathways and preparing them for success in higher education and beyond.
For more information about the articulation agreement and how it benefits students, please contact Florentine Hoelker, Ph.D., associate vice president for curriculum & instruction, at fhoelker@mercyhurst.edu.