Augusta University and Augusta Technical College kick off pathway program for cyber students

Augusta University and Augusta Technical College celebrated a new Cybersecurity to Information Technology Pathway program Aug. 16 at the Georgia Cyber Center. This program allows students in ATC’s Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity a pathway into AU’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology.

“The need for cybersecurity professionals is only increasing across the state and nation. Cooperation between institutions of higher education is imperative as we prepare the students of today to become the workforce of tomorrow,” said Augusta University President Brooks A. Keel, PhD. “We are grateful to Augusta Technical College for an ongoing and growing partnership with AU’s School of Computer and Cyber Sciences and the Georgia Cyber Center as we uphold Augusta’s reputation as the cyber capital of Georgia.”

Through this partnership with the ATC cybersecurity program and the AU School of Computer and Cyber Sciences, students can take advantage of course articulation, challenge exams and program-specific academic advising at ATC and special transfer events at AU to prepare for completion of both degrees.

Leaders from both institutions helped kick off the new program, including Keel; Augusta Technical College President Dr. Jermaine Whirl; Augusta University Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Neil J. MacKinnon; Augusta University School of Computer and Cyber Sciences Dean Dr. Alex Schwarzmann; Augusta Technical College Provost Dr. Melissa Frank-Alston; and Augusta Technical College School of Cyber & Design Media Dean Tammy O’Brien.

“Augusta Technical College is honored to partner with Augusta University in delivering a seamless transfer pathway for students to complete both their associate and now bachelor’s degree at the Georgia Cyber Center,” said Whirl. “This pathway program adds to the CRSA’s nationally recognized cyber ecosystem of transformative innovation, where government/military, education, and private industries collide. Students completing both their associate and bachelor’s degrees will be technically astute and research oriented to solve global problems in the everchanging world of cybersecurity.”

Cyber students from both AU and ATC take classes at the Georgia Cyber Center. As part of the collaborative ecosystem, an onsite internship coordinator works with students to help them secure internship opportunities with industry partners.

To apply for the Cybersecurity to Information Technology Pathway at Augusta University, Augusta Technical College students must complete the ATC transient application. Upon completion, students must determine which course(s) they will take challenge exams for in order to earn credit. Students must pass challenge exams with a score of 70 or higher to receive credit for the appropriate course. Interested students should declare their intent as early as possible in their college careers.

For more information about the program, contact the Office of Admissions or call 706-737-1632.