A new partnership between Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) and the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is expanding access to in-demand engineering degrees – allowing students to complete a Bachelor of Science in Electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial & Systems Engineering while staying close to home.
Through a series of newly signed articulation agreements, qualified NWTC students now have guaranteed transfer pathways into UW-Platteville's ABET-accredited engineering programs. The partnership, part of UW-Platteville's Engineering Partnership Program (PEP), removes traditional barriers by offering hybrid and online course options, dual enrollment opportunities, and the flexibility for students to work and live in Northeast Wisconsin while finishing their degree.
“This partnership is about meeting students where they are and where they’re headed,” said Dr. Kathryn Rogalski, vice president of Academic Affairs & Workforce Development at NWTC. “It gives our students clear, affordable, and flexible routes to continue their education and step into high-demand engineering careers right here in our region.”
As a newly designated PEP Site, NWTC will host UW-Platteville’s distance learning courses, taught by Platteville faculty and supported through joint academic advising from both institutions.
“These agreements create robust, clear, and affordable pathways for technical college students who want to earn four-year engineering degrees without starting over,” said Dr. Philip Parker, dean of the College of Engineering, Mathematics, and Science at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. “This collaboration is a direct investment in Wisconsin's future workforce.”
Multiple pathways to a bachelor's degree
NWTC students can now pursue several flexible routes to a UW-Platteville engineering degree:
- Begin with NWTC's Associate of Science (AS) degree for a direct path to a four-year degree. Students can start with the AS program, then transfer smoothly into UW-Platteville's Electrical, Industrial & Systems, or Mechanical Engineering programs.
- Start in NWTC's applied associate of science (A.A.S) in Electrical Engineering Technology or Mechanical Design Technology programs. Students in these programs can then dual enroll with UW-Platteville's BSEE, BSISE, or BSME after completing 2-4 semesters of coursework.
- Work first, transfer later. Students who want to work in the engineering technology field (or study while working) can complete the A.A.S. plus an additional ~17 credits to earn the Associate of Science (AS) degree, then transfer to UW-Platteville when ready.
These pathways offer flexibility for full-time students, working adults, and place-bound learners – ensuring that access to high-quality engineering education is possible anywhere in Northeast Wisconsin.
“NWTC provides an ideal starting point for a hands-on, in-demand engineering career at one of Wisconsin's leading technical colleges,” added Rogalski. “UW-Platteville builds on that foundation with a student-centered approach that lets learners complete their degree through hybrid, online, or on-campus options.”
More Information
