TROY, Wallace launch pathway to engineering degree

Officials with Troy University and Wallace Community College Dothan signed an agreement today giving Wallace engineering students a pathway to TROY.

Officials with Troy University and Wallace Community College Dothan signed an agreement today giving Wallace engineering students a pathway to TROY.

Troy University and Wallace Community College Dothan have signed an agreement to create a pathway for WCCD students to earn a bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE) from TROY.

The partnership ensures that students completing Wallace’s Electrical Technology (ELT) or Industrial Systems Technology (INT) programs can transfer to TROY’s EEE program with guaranteed acceptance, provided they meet outlined academic requirements.

“At Troy University, we are committed to creating opportunities that empower students to reach their full potential,” said Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor. “This partnership with Wallace Community College strengthens Alabama’s educational pipeline and ensures that students can pursue rewarding careers in engineering with a clear path to success.”

Under the agreement, Wallace students must complete all prerequisite courses before enrolling in upper-level classes at TROY and meet all degree requirements listed in the University’s Undergraduate Catalog. To be admitted, students must have earned at least a 2.0 GPA (“C” average) or higher in all college-level coursework.

Students may transfer up to 62 semester hours from Wallace toward their TROY degree. Credits must align with TROY’s degree plan and cannot duplicate previously earned credits. Students who earn a “B” (3.0 GPA) or higher in each ELT or INT course will receive credit toward the EEE degree plan.

Officials with Troy University and Wallace Community College Dothan signed an agreement Monday morning that creates a pipeline for WCCD engineering students to attend TROY.
Officials with Troy University and Wallace Community College Dothan signed an agreement Monday morning that creates a pipeline for WCCD engineering students to attend TROY.

“TROY’s Electrical and Electronics Engineering program is built for students who want hands-on learning and real career impact,” said Dr. Govind Menon, Dean of the College of Science and Engineering. “Our faculty are committed to meeting students where they are and giving them the tools to thrive in a field that’s growing every day.”

The agreement emphasizes collaboration between the two institutions to promote the pathway and assist students during the transfer process. TROY will provide representatives to help with enrollment and advising, while Wallace will coordinate with TROY to share program information and marketing strategies.

“As a proud Troy University alumna, this partnership is especially meaningful to me,” said Dr. Kathy L. Murphy, WCCD President. “Wallace Community College and Troy University are both dedicated to helping students reach their goals, and this agreement creates new opportunities for them to take the next step in their education and careers. This partnership not only strengthens the bond between our institutions but also reinforces our shared commitment to student success and workforce development across Alabama. It’s a win for our students, our institutions and the communities we serve.”

Both institutions will review the agreement every two years to ensure it continues to meet the needs of students and the workforce. The partnership will remain in effect as long as both institutions maintain regional accreditation through SACSCOC.

“This articulation agreement creates a seamless pathway for students in our high-wage, high-demand Electrical Technology and Industrial Systems Technology programs to continue their education, advance their career, and strengthen our communities,” said Leslie Reeder, WCCD Dean of Instructional Affairs. “We deeply value our strong partnership with Troy University and our shared commitment to removing barriers, expanding pathways, and empowering students to achieve their educational and career goals.”

About the Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Electrical Engineering at TROY

The Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronics Engineering was approved by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education on March 14 and provides a cutting-edge curriculum that integrates theory, hands-on learning and industry-driven innovation.

Troy University Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. and Wallace Community College President Dr. Kathy Murphy with current WCCD engineering students.
Troy University Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. and Wallace Community College President Dr. Kathy Murphy with current WCCD engineering students.

With a future-focused curriculum and the goal of producing industry-ready graduates, the program boasts small class sizes and personalized learning, advanced specializations, innovative technologies and hands-on learning opportunities at each stage.

“This program marks a significant milestone in TROY’s commitment to advancing engineering education,” said Dr. Raj Vinnakota, interim director of the Center for Materials and Manufacturing Sciences, EEE assistant professor and the program coordinator. “By integrating cutting-edge coursework with hands-on experience, we are preparing students to become innovators and problem-solvers in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.”

Based on data from the Alabama Department of Labor’s Labor Market Information Division, electrical engineers are projected to have an average of 225 annual job openings and offer a median annual salary of $103,652. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Engineering Occupations (National Employment Matrix Code 17-2000) are predicted to experience a 5.1 percent rise between 2021-2031.

Key sectors and career paths include the semiconductor industry; robotics and automation; telecommunications and wireless technology; power and renewable energy; embedded systems; photonics and optoelectronics; and aerospace and defense.

“As industries increasingly rely on advancements in semiconductors, telecommunications, automation and renewable energy, this program will equip students with the expertise needed to meet workforce demands,” Vinnakota said. “It fosters university-industry collaborations that drive innovation and economic growth.”

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