Goldsboro, N.C — Wayne Community College (WCC) students pursuing careers in criminal justice and forensic science now have a clearer path to a four-year degree, thanks to a new transfer agreement with East Carolina University (ECU).
The partnership allows WCC graduates who earn an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in either Criminal Justice Technology or Criminal Justice Technology/Forensic Science to transfer into ECU’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program. Students in the general Criminal Justice track can transfer up to 60 credit hours, while those in the Forensic Science concentration can transfer up to 56 credit hours.
In addition, students pursuing the Forensic Science concentration at ECU have the opportunity to further specialize by adding a forensic science concentration to their bachelor’s degree with additional coursework.
“This new partnership with ECU gives students a seamless path to continue their education and reach their goals,” said Hope Bruehl, WCC’s Criminal Justice Technology/Forensic Science Coordinator. “It’s especially exciting to see our Forensic Science program transfer over since those students now have the chance to not only earn a bachelor’s degree but also add a concentration in forensic science if they wish.”
To qualify for the transfer, students must have a minimum 2.0 GPA and earn at least a “C” grade in courses that apply to their major.
WCC’s Criminal Justice Technology program prepares students for careers in local, state, and federal law enforcement, as well as judicial processes, corrections, and private security. The Forensic Science concentration provides hands-on experience in evidence collection, analysis, and law enforcement procedures.
Bruehl emphasized that the agreement opens up new possibilities for WCC students. “So many of our students have dreamed of going to ECU, and now that path is wide open,” she said. “This is a huge step forward for their futures.”
This new articulation agreement joins several other existing transfer pathways between WCC and ECU, continuing the institutions’ efforts to provide affordable and accessible higher education opportunities.
For more information, contact Hope Bruehl at abruehl@waynecc.edu or 919-739-6861.
