HUNTSVILLE — Drake State Community & Technical College has teamed up with Western Governors University for degrees in high-demand sectors critical to the Huntsville workforce.
WGU, a nonprofit, online university, will provide Drake State graduates and employees with flexible, personalized-learning pathways to programs in areas such as cybersecurity, nursing, education and business.
“Drake State and WGU provided me with an excellent education that has helped me enter my chosen profession and excel,” said Max Tunstall, chief nursing officer at Athens-Limestone Hospital. “Drake State offered a structured program where the instructors provided in-person instruction and one-on-one assistance. This was helpful when learning information and skills to prepare me to enter the workforce.
“WGU also provided a personalized education that was flexible and allowed me to balance my career, family, and educational obligations.”
A Drake State graduate scholarship is also available for WGU studies. WGU’s online programs are mentor-supported and designed to fit into work and home schedules.
“Both Drake State and WGU strive to provide an affordable and accessible education,” said Dr. Kimberly K. Estep, WGU’s Southeast regional vice president. “We are delighted to partner with an institution that aims to better their students and graduates with opportunities to broaden their education and careers alongside WGU.”
Drake is WGU’s first community college partner in Alabama. There are 1,300 WGU students in Alabama and more than 1,700 graduates.
“This collaboration will provide more Drake State students and alumni, like Drake-WGU alumnus Max Tunstall, with a new educational pathway to further advance their careers and increase earnings, security, and opportunity for their families,” said Dr. Patricia G. Sims, Drake State president. “We are grateful for this new opportunity for Drake’s students and Huntsville area employees and employers.”
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