WCC, UMO Sign Transfer Agreement for Cybersecurity Programs

Starting in the fall of 2026, students who graduate from WCC with an Associate in Applied Science in Cybersecurity can seamlessly transfer to UMO to earn a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Applied Computer Science. UMO’s program is offered fully online and in a traditional format.

A signing ceremony was held between WCC and UMO to officially enter the new partnership.

“It is a privilege to join forces and create a clear pathway for our students at WCC to continue their education at UMO,” said WCC President Patty Pfeiffer. “We look forward to strengthening this partnership as we continue to work together to educate students in Wayne County.”

WCC Information Systems Technology Department Chair Jennifer Tyndall said the agreement will expand opportunities for WCC’s Cybersecurity students as they transfer to UMO.

“This partnership creates a seamless pathway for those who wish to continue their education while building on the strong foundation they’ve developed at Wayne Community College,” Tyndall said. “With UMO right here in our community, this collaboration strengthens both access and opportunity for our students.”

Dr. H. Edward Croom, UMO president, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to preparing students for high-demand careers in the rapidly evolving cybersecurity field.

“This agreement reflects our shared commitment to providing meaningful educational opportunities for students in our region,” said Croom. “By creating a clear pathway from Wayne Community College to the University of Mount Olive, we are helping students continue their academic journey while preparing them for careers that are essential to protecting the digital infrastructure that businesses and organizations rely on every day.”

Both WCC’s and UMO’s cybersecurity programs give students hands-on experience with technologies that require them to plan and carry out security measures to protect organizations’ information technology (IT) networks.

WCC was designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. The College’s new cybersecurity lab is giving students hands-on learning experience in critical defense strategies.

UMO’s program offers real-world cybersecurity internships and leads to industry-recognized certifications that prepare graduates for numerous career opportunities. The Cybersecurity and Applied Computer Science program offers an applied track and a software engineering track, allowing students to customize their learning experience.