Tennessee Technological University begins to offer classes on Roane State’s Oak Ridge campus
The ability to take Tennessee Tech courses on campus as community colleges is not a new offering, but this is the first time students at Roane State Community College will have access to Tennessee Tech’s 2+2 program.
Tennessee Technological University has expanded access to its community college programming by adding Roane State Community College’s Oak Ridge campus to its roster. Students at the Oak Ridge campus can complete a Tennessee Tech Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in project management and environmental and sustainability studies. The courses are tailored toward adult students who may already be working in the Oak Ridge area, making it easier to complete a Tennessee Tech degree without having to physically be at Tennessee Tech.
According to an article on Tennessee Technological University’s website, Jo Ann Foster, who serves as the site coordinator and advisor for Tennessee Tech’s Oak Ridge programming, explained why Roane State’s Oak Ridge campus is a good fit for this expansion. She is quoted as saying, “Oak Ridge is centrally located and is truly a hub for several of the surrounding counties. Roane State has been a valuable partner to Tech, and we’re excited to come alongside them and offer students a pathway to a bachelor’s degree in these sought-after fields of study from the convenience of the Oak Ridge campus.”
The 2+2 program offered by Tennessee Technological University gives students who have an associate degree the ability to complete a bachelor degree from Tennessee Tech in two years, something that Tammy Keylon, a recruitment specialist for Tennessee Tech’s College of Interdisciplinary Studies, said is important for bringing the ability to complete a college education to fruition for many students.
“Tennessee Tech believes strongly that education can be for anyone, regardless of background or age. We want to remove those roadblocks to higher education and make it simpler for nontraditional students and working adults to complete their degree. In this case, that means bringing a little bit of Cookeville to Oak Ridge. We’re excited to equip students with the benefits and reputation of a Tennessee Tech degree, all from the convenience of their home community,” said Keylon.
In order to take part in the 2+2 program, students must first receive an associate degree. With help from Tennessee Tech to ensure their credits will transfer smoothly, they will then be able to complete their remaining credits toward a Tennessee Tech bachelor degree at the community college.
For more information about Tennessee Technological University, visit the school’s website.