GOLDSBORO, N.C. – Two North Carolina community colleges have joined forces to expand access to cutting-edge academic programs, signing agreements that will allow students to pursue artificial intelligence and biotechnology degrees across both institutions.
Wayne Community College and Wilson Community College announced the signing of Instructional Service Agreements (ISAs) this week, creating pathways for students to access specialized programs in Artificial Intelligence Engineering and Biotechnology regardless of which campus they attend.
Cross-Campus AI Program Access
Under the new arrangement, Wilson Community College students can enroll in Wayne CC’s Artificial Intelligence Engineer program online after completing their first-year general education requirements. Graduates will receive an Associate in Applied Science degree in Artificial Intelligence Engineering from Wayne CC.
Wayne’s AI program, which focuses on designing, implementing and supporting artificial intelligence systems while helping organizations transition to AI technology, holds a distinguished position in higher education. The college was the first community college in North Carolina and only the second in the nation to offer an associate degree specializing in artificial intelligence.
This marks Wayne CC’s third ISA for its AI curriculum, following similar agreements with Brunswick and Johnston community colleges.
Biotechnology Partnership
The partnership works in reverse for biotechnology education, with Wayne CC students able to access Wilson CC’s specialized Biotechnology program. Students can complete general education courses and two biotechnology classes at Wayne before transferring to Wilson CC to finish their Associate in Applied Science degree in Biotechnology.
Wilson’s Biotechnology program addresses growing industry demand for skilled laboratory technicians across biological and chemical technology sectors. The program is set to receive a significant enhancement with a new $30 million biotechnology training center scheduled to open in 2027, which will provide expanded hands-on learning opportunities.
Educational Leaders Celebrate Collaboration
Both college presidents emphasized the strategic value of the partnership during a signing ceremony held to formalize the agreement.
“This signing ceremony is a powerful example of what we can accomplish through partnerships,” said Dr. Patty Pfeiffer, Wayne CC president. “When we work together across institutions, we strengthen our communities and broaden the reach of quality education for all.”
Dr. Jami Woods, Wilson CC president, echoed the sentiment, stating, “The power of a partnership like this allows us to really amplify what we can do individually. I’m grateful for our partnership with our Wayne friends and colleagues.”
The collaboration represents a growing trend among community colleges to pool resources and expertise to offer students access to specialized programs that might otherwise be unavailable at their home institutions.
Students interested in learning more about the Artificial Intelligence Engineer and Biotechnology programs can visit the respective college websites for additional information and enrollment details.
