The leaders of CFCC and UNCW signed a dual-enrollment agreement Tuesday that provides qualifying students to take classes at both schools at the same time, giving them a chance to earn an associate's degree at CFCC and transition to one of UNCW's undergraduate programs, according to an announcement.

Cape Fear Community College President Jim Morton and University of North Carolina Wilmington Chancellor Jose V. Sartarelli signed the agreement, dubbed SEA-Path, on Tuesday afternoon.

"To be eligible for SEA-Path, students must meet and maintain the eligibility criteria outlined by the UNC System Minimum Course Requirements and maintain a 2.5 GPA at CFCC," the release stated.

The schools already have a partnership, the UNCW/CFCC Pathway to Excellence Program, but it does not involve dual enrollment, according to UNCW's website.

Students dually enrolled through SEA-Path will have the opportunity to choose one online or main campus class per term (beginning their second semester following high school graduation) at UNCW, according to the release.

UNCW will award a $200 scholarship for each dually enrolled course for up to a total of three courses.

“SEA-Path offers CFCC students an avenue for a seamless transition to their baccalaureate studies at UNCW,” said Jason Chaffin, CFCC vice president for academic affairs, in the release. “This articulation and admissions agreement is a great opportunity for students in New Hanover and Pender counties.”

CFCC "is committed to providing strong pathways for our university transfer students," Morton said in the release. "Partnering with universities like UNCW strengthens enrollment at both schools, and helps students succeed."