GOLDSBORO, N.C. – Wayne Community College has signed its fourth Instructional Service Agreement to expand access to its groundbreaking artificial intelligence curriculum, announcing a new partnership that will allow Nash Community College students to earn an Associate in Applied Science – Artificial Intelligence Engineer degree.
Under the agreement, Nash Community College students will be able to enroll in Wayne Community College’s AI classes online after completing their first-year general education requirements. The partnership represents the latest expansion of WCC’s pioneering AI program, which was the first of its kind among North Carolina community colleges and only the second nationwide.
“The world is embracing artificial intelligence, and our students need to understand how to leverage this powerful tool because it is going to be an essential part of our everyday lives,” said Wayne Community College President Patty Pfeiffer. “As businesses across our region seek professionals who understand and know how to apply AI, we’re proud to play a role in equipping our future workforce.”
The Artificial Intelligence Engineer program is designed to provide students with practical skills in designing, implementing, and supporting AI systems while helping organizations transition to AI-powered technologies. The curriculum addresses the growing demand for AI-literate professionals across various industries.
Nash Community College President Lew Hunnicutt emphasized the value of inter-institutional collaboration in expanding educational opportunities. “Partnerships are where we excel in North Carolina’s community colleges,” Hunnicutt said. “Many people think we are autonomous units; nothing could be further from the truth. We need to embrace AI, and this agreement helps us do that.”
Wayne Community College’s AI degree program is now available to students at four partner institutions: Nash, Brunswick, Johnston, and Wilson community colleges. This multi-college approach allows smaller institutions to offer specialized programs that might otherwise be financially unfeasible while ensuring students across the region have access to cutting-edge technology education.
The expansion comes as artificial intelligence continues to transform industries and create new career pathways. Community colleges have increasingly positioned themselves as key providers of workforce development programs that respond quickly to emerging technological needs.
Students interested in the AI program must complete general education requirements at their home institution before accessing Wayne Community College’s specialized AI coursework online. Upon successful completion, graduates receive their degree through Wayne Community College.
For more information about Wayne Community College’s Artificial Intelligence Engineer program, visit the college’s website.
