MMA Expands Dual-Credit Opportunities for MMA Cadets Through College Triumph Program

Missouri Military Academy’s College Triumph Program is providing cadets with expanded dual-credit opportunities through partnerships with Westminster College and William Woods University, giving cadets meaningful access to college-level coursework while still in high school. In addition, MMA-specific scholarships from both Westminster and William Woods are available to qualifying cadets.

Feature photo: Missouri Military Academy cadets learn about opportunities from William Woods University's Frank Giuseffi.

Through these partnerships, qualifying MMA cadets are currently earning transferable college credit as part of their academic schedule, reinforcing MMA’s commitment to academic excellence, early college preparation and long-term student success. High-performing cadets are able to complete high school graduation requirements while simultaneously accelerating progress toward a bachelor’s degree.

A distinguishing feature of MMA’s College Triumph dual-credit model is that cadets attend their classes on college campuses, taught by college and university faculty rather than high school instructors. By taking courses at Westminster College and William Woods University, cadets experience authentic collegiate environments, academic expectations, instructional pace and faculty standards. This immersive approach sets MMA’s dual-credit program apart from many high school-based models and better prepares cadets for the transition to full-time college study.

Founded in 1851, Westminster College is a private liberal arts institution in Fulton, Missouri, recognized for its rigorous academics and rich historical legacy, including hosting world leaders such as Winston Churchill, Harry Truman and Margaret Thatcher. William Woods University, also located in Fulton, is a long-standing partner of MMA through the College Triumph Program, offering strong academic programs with a focus on leadership, professional preparation, and student success.  

 Westminster College President Don Lofe meets with MMA cadets in January 2026. Photo courtesy of Westminster College.

Spring 2026 Dual-Credit Courses

All dual-credit classes are held at Westminster College or William Woods University on designated dates and times. Cadets are transported to and from classes using MMA-provided transportation. The following were offered for the spring 2026 semester:

Westminster College Dual Credit Courses

• Elementary Spanish I – Introduction to basic communication, vocabulary and grammar with a focus on the present tense.

• Introduction to Political Science – Study of political action, institutions and contemporary global issues.

• Introduction to Speech – Fundamentals of speech communication and public speaking.

• Principles of Marketing – Overview of marketing concepts including product development, promotion, pricing, distribution and marketing research.

• World Literature Since 1800: Fairy Tales and Folktales – Examination of global fairy tales and folktales, cultural identity and literary adaptations.

William Woods University Dual Credit Courses

• Calculus – Introduction to limits, continuity, differentiation and integration with applications in science, social science and business (meets Monday–Friday; earns 5 college credits).

• College Algebra – Algebraic modeling and problem-solving using graphing calculators (meets Tuesday/Thursday).

• Introduction to Speech – Fundamentals of oral communication and presentation skills (meets Monday/Wednesday/Friday).

Eligibility Requirements (Applies to All College Triumph Dual-Credit Courses)

• Open to second-semester sophomores, juniors and seniors.

• Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

• Earn a “B” or better in all prerequisite courses.

• Receive a recommendation from Missouri Military Academy.

Westminster Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Services Derek Zander encourages cadets' academic progress. Photo courtesy of Westminster College.

College Triumph: A Strategic Advantage for Cadets

Through the College Triumph Program, MMA cadets benefit from increased academic flexibility, choice and exposure to college-level rigor while continuing to thrive within MMA’s structured and supportive environment. The program enables cadets to:

• Begin earning transferable college credit while still in high school.

• Reduce the time and cost required to complete a college degree.

• Demonstrate readiness for selective colleges and universities.

• Build academic discipline, independence and confidence.

• Follow a clear academic roadmap that supports long-term college planning for families.

In addition to Westminster College and William Woods University, MMA cadets may also enroll in courses at the Hart Career Center in Mexico, Missouri, allowing them to explore technical and career-focused pathways alongside traditional academic options.

Through the continued growth of the College Triumph Program and its strategic higher education partnerships, Missouri Military Academy ensures that cadets graduate not only prepared for college — but already well on their way to college success.