Key Takeaways
- Wayne Community College and Wilson Community College expand academic offerings in Artificial Intelligence and Biotechnology.
- Students can enroll in specialized programs online or transfer between colleges to complete degrees.
- A new $30 million biotechnology training center is set to enhance hands-on learning by 2027.
New Academic Alliances
Two North Carolina community colleges, Wayne Community College (Wayne CC) and Wilson Community College (Wilson CC), have established Instructional Service Agreements (ISAs) to enhance student access to specialized degrees in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Biotechnology. This collaborative effort aims to offer cutting-edge academic programs that advance career opportunities in these rapidly evolving fields.
The initiative allows Wilson CC students to enroll online in Wayne CC’s Artificial Intelligence Engineer program after completing their first-year general education courses. Graduates of this program will earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in Artificial Intelligence Engineering, positioning them well in a market increasingly reliant on AI technologies. Notably, Wayne CC was the first community college in North Carolina and only the second nationwide to offer a degree specifically in artificial intelligence.
This ISA marks the third partnership for Wayne CC’s AI program, following similar agreements with Brunswick and Johnston community colleges. Conversely, Wayne CC students can transition to Wilson CC’s Biotechnology program, taking general education courses and two biotechnology-specific classes at Wayne before transferring to complete an Associate in Applied Science degree in Biotechnology.
Wilson CC’s Biotechnology program responds to a growing demand for skilled laboratory technicians in biological and chemical technology sectors. To bolster this program, a new $30 million biotechnology training center is slated to open in 2027, which will provide students with enhanced practical learning experiences.
The significance of this partnership was highlighted by the college presidents during a formal signing ceremony. Dr. Patty Pfeiffer, president of Wayne CC, spoke about the collaborative effort’s potential, stating that it “strengthens our communities and broadens the reach of quality education for all.” Similarly, Dr. Jami Woods, president of Wilson CC, emphasized the amplified capabilities resulting from their partnership.
This collaboration represents a growing trend among community colleges to leverage resources and expertise, facilitating access to specialized educational programs that may not be available at individual institutions. Students interested in pursuing degrees in Artificial Intelligence or Biotechnology are encouraged to visit the respective college websites for further information and enrollment instructions.
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