July 13, 2026
GREENVILLE — Craven Community College (Craven CC) and East Carolina University (ECU) have signed a new partnership agreement creating a seamless transfer pathway for students pursuing bachelor's degrees in industrial technology.
Signed June 29 at ECU's Science and Technology Building, the agreement guarantees admission to eligible Craven CC graduates who complete one of 10 approved Associate in Applied Science (AAS) programs and meet program-specific admission requirements. The partnership provides new opportunities for students to advance their careers while remaining in Eastern North Carolina, helping regional employers build a stronger workforce and giving graduates access to higher-paying careers.
Craven CC President Dr. Ray Staats said the partnership helps address workforce needs while keeping talent in the region.
"We have a large employer base that depends on Craven Community College for its pipeline," said Staats. "If we have to send them out of town to go someplace else, very often they don't come back. That's a huge loss for Craven County. We appreciate these partnerships that are designed so our students can keep working, stay home and move up the ladder."
ECU's Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology (BSIT) program offers seven concentrations: architecture design technology, bioprocess manufacturing, distribution and logistics, industrial management, industrial engineering technology, information and cybersecurity technology, and mechanical design technology. Five of those concentrations can be completed entirely online, allowing working adults to earn a bachelor's degree on their own schedule.
"These partnerships aren't about enrollment strategy for us," said Dr. Allen Guidry, ECU associate provost for learner operations. "We partner in these ways because we want it this way. It's about keeping talent in Eastern North Carolina. It's about people starting where they feel comfortable, continuing along their pathway where they can live and work, and then contributing to the region."
The agreement applies to graduates of the following Craven CC programs:
- Automotive Systems Technology
- Aviation Systems Technology
- Business Administration
- Computer-Aided Drafting Technology
- Computer-Integrated Machining
- Electronics Engineering Technology
- Industrial Systems Technology
- Information Technology
- Mechatronics Engineering Technology
- Welding Technology
To qualify for guaranteed admission, students must complete one of the approved AAS programs and meet the admission requirements for their selected ECU degree concentration.