More advanced-technology programs offered in response to anticipated demand by industry, students
The ongoing partnership between Macomb Community College and Wayne State University is taking a significant step forward with the announcement that the two institutions are teaming up to develop the Wayne State University Advanced Technology Education Center at Macomb's South Campus. The center will be home to Wayne State's new advanced technology and business-oriented program offerings in Macomb County.
The announcement was made by Wayne State President Jay Noren and Macomb President James Jacobs Monday, Oct. 13. The WSU Advanced Technology Education Center will be a full-service extension center of the university.
The new program offerings are a response to Southeast Michigan's changing workplace, which increasingly requires employees with leading-edge technical skills. The expanded curricula include programs leading to bachelor's degrees in engineering and engineering technology, computer science, graphic design, global supply chain management, and construction management as well as graduate-level programs in engineering management, industrial relations and other customized executive education and professional development courses.
A bachelor's degree program in engineering technology was introduced this fall, and the other degree programs will be rolled out gradually, starting with the winter term this January.
Noren pointed out that WSU has been expanding program offerings in Macomb County following a December 2004 report by the state Lieutenant Governor's Commission on Higher Education and Economic Growth. The commission was charged with finding ways to double the number of college graduates in the state within 10 years.
Among other recommendations, the commission report called for closer cooperation between state-funded universities and community colleges. Wayne State commissioned a study to pinpoint academic needs in Macomb County, then worked closely with Macomb Community College in determining how best to meet those needs.
"The expanded WSU course offerings on Macomb's South Campus will provide greater convenience for Macomb residents who plan to pursue advanced technology degrees that are increasingly in demand by employers in today's rapidly changing workplace," Noren said. "Graduates of these programs will provide a readily available and technically savvy workforce for employers, which will help drive the economic revitalization of Macomb County, the region and the state."
"Macomb Community College is committed to encouraging and helping greater numbers of county residents earn the post-secondary credentials vital to their personal success, as well as the future economic health of the county," Jacobs said. "This new level of partnership with Wayne State demonstrates Macomb College's focus on responding to the evolving needs of our community by developing the resources and partnerships necessary to enhance sustainable employment options, support meaningful business growth and contribute to a high quality of life."
A partnership between Wayne State and Macomb has been in place for more than a decade, and WSU has offered courses at other locations in Macomb County for more than three decades.
Since January of this year, the two institutions have cooperated in a program that streamlines the transition from community college to university. Called WayneDirect, the program permits students to enroll concurrently at both institutions.
For a detailed list of Wayne State courses available at Macomb Community College, visit macomb.wayne.edu. Through its Executive and Professional Development Division, Wayne State also offers professional development programs tailored to the particular needs of organizations.
Wayne State University is a premier institution of higher education offering more than 350 academic programs through 11 schools and colleges to more than 31,000 students.
Macomb Community College (www.macomb.edu) is one of the nation's leading community colleges, providing learning experiences to more than 59,000 students annually and including pre-collegiate experiences, university transfer and career preparation programs, bachelor degree completion and graduate degree programs, workforce training, professional education and certification, and continuing education and enrichment opportunities.