TEXAS CITY — College of the Mainland and the University of Houston are partnering to make it easier for community college students to transfer and complete four-year degrees through a new initiative called the UH Next program, according to a release from College of the Mainland.

The UH Next pilot program will begin in spring 2026 within UH’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and is expected to serve as a model for future expansion into additional colleges.

Under a new memorandum of understanding between the two institutions, students who complete an associate degree at College of the Mainland will have a streamlined transfer process to UH. The agreement is designed to help students meet academic requirements and more easily transition into bachelor’s degree programs.

“College of the Mainland is committed to creating meaningful pathways that meet students where they are and take them where they aspire to be,” said COM President Dr. Helen Brewer. “Our partnership with the University of Houston ensures that commitment extends well beyond our campus and offers our students a seamless transition to university after COM.”

The collaboration will include coordinated advising between COM and UH to help students align coursework, navigate transfer policies and stay on track for graduation. Degree maps developed by advisors from both schools will guide students in maximizing transferable credits.

“This new development in our partnership with the University of Houston reaffirms our commitment to students achieving their educational goals,” said COM Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Heather Rhodes.

The partnership, according to the college, is part of COM’s ongoing effort to expand access and affordability for students pursuing higher education opportunities.