L-R: Laredo College President Dr. Minita Ramirez, Coastal Bend College President Dr. Zachary Suarez, Dean of the Frank H. Dotterweich College of Engineering at TAMU-K Dr. Heidi Taboada, VC President Dr. Jennifer Kent and TAMUK president Dr. Robert Vela.
Victoria College has joined a regional partnership with Texas A&M University–Kingsville to create a new transfer pathway for students pursuing engineering degrees through the Javelina Engineering Academy.
The agreement will allow students to complete the first two years of engineering coursework at VC before transferring to Texas A&M–Kingsville to complete a bachelor’s degree.
Initial pathways will include civil, industrial and mechanical engineering, with additional options expected to be developed later.
“This partnership helps create a clear pathway for our students from Victoria College to an engineering degree,” said Dr. Jennifer Kent, Victoria College President. “We have a need for engineers in our region, and this agreement supports students who want to stay close to home while preparing for those careers.”
Students in the academy will complete core curriculum and major-specific courses at VC before transferring to Texas A&M–Kingsville. Faculty and advisers from both institutions will coordinate curriculum and academic planning to support transfer success.
The partnership is intended to address workforce needs in South Texas by building a pipeline from high school to community college, university and careers.
“For students in Victoria and the Golden Crescent, this creates access to engineering programs that might otherwise feel out of reach,” said Kent. "This is just the beginning. Victoria College is also excited about the opportunity to partner with Texas A&M University–Victoria as it explores offering an engineering program."
Learn more about the Javelina Engineering Academy at VictoriaCollege.edu/TransferServices.
*Photo courtesy of Texas A&M University–Kingsville