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SHSU SamPoly and Dickinson ISD Strengthen Pathways to Higher Education

June 2, 2026
Jonathan Thomas, Chad Hargrave and Edgard Sanchez of the SamPoly and transfer partnership teams at SHSU join Rebecca Brown (second from right), superintendent of Dickinson ISD, to sign the memorandum of understanding between the university and school district.

SHSU SamPoly and Dickinson ISD Strengthen Pathways to Higher Education

Sam Houston State University and Dickinson Independent School District have entered into a new dual credit partnership agreement designed to expand college opportunities for high school students through SHSU’s polytechnic college, SamPoly.

Through the agreement, Dickinson ISD students will have the opportunity to earn college credit through SHSU while completing their high school coursework, helping them accelerate progress toward a career pathway.

“Qualifying Dickinson ISD students can participate in dual credit through SamPoly’s Computer Information Systems and Security program,” said Jonathan Thomas, SamPoly director of strategic partnerships & technology transfer. “Students who complete the program while in high school will have the opportunity to earn a Level 1 certificate in Computer Information Specialist.”

Additionally, many course credits earned through SamPoly programs are stackable, meaning they can be applied toward an Associate of Applied Sciences degree or a four-year bachelor's degree in a related discipline.

SamPoly is SHSU’s applied learning and polytechnic initiative focused on career-aligned education, industry certifications and workforce-ready skills. The college is designed to create flexible pathways that connect academic coursework with in-demand technical and professional fields, helping students transition more efficiently from high school to careers.

“SamPoly reflects Sam Houston State’s commitment to driving economic progress and strengthening the workforce across Texas and beyond,” Thomas said. “We plan to continue expanding certification opportunities over time while working closely with industry leaders to ensure programs align with evolving workforce needs.”

Educational partnerships with SamPoly emphasize college readiness, academic advising and student support services. Information on partnership opportunities can be found on the SamPoly website.

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