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North Carolina Central University and �㽶��nical Community College formalized an agreement Wednesday, Sept. 3, to strengthen pathways to careers in the Life Sciences field.

�㽶�� President J.B. Buxton and NCCU Chancellor Karrie Dixon explained the structure of the new transfer partnership to those attending the signing. The agreement creates new pathways between �㽶��’s Associate in Applied Sciences (AAS) programs and bachelor’s degrees in NCCU’s College of Health and Sciences.

NCCU will admit students from �㽶�� who have completed the Associate in Applied Science in biotechnology, clinical trials research, or any other associate in applied science program that is related to the Life Sciences. Students will enter disciplines at NCCU in programs like biomedical sciences, chemistry, biochemistry, biology, pharmaceutical sciences, sports medicine, nutrition and clinical research sciences.
 
“This is a different kind of articulation agreement. This is an agreement that recognizes the dynamism, scale and speed of innovation of the sciences, and what it going to take to build the talent pipeline for the Life Sciences sector,” Buxton said. “What �㽶�� and N.C. Central are doing is creating more opportunities for more students to enter good jobs in the sector – and connecting local employers with the talent they need.”

Dixon said the agreement will serve students, as well as employers across the state.

“Today’s signing marks a bold and pivotal step for NCCU and �㽶�� as we think about our shared commitment to the people of Durham, the Research Triangle and our great state,” Dixon said.

This innovative framework replaces the need for multiple bilateral agreements, allowing the institutions to quickly develop new pathways in high-demand fields tied to the local economy. The programs create clear, affordable pathways for �㽶�� students into careers in life sciences, clinical trials, and STEM, critical to the Research Triangle Park’s economy.

Buxton noted that Lawson Street, which runs directly through both the �㽶�� and N.C. Central campus, will become known as the region’s life sciences talent development corridor.

North Carolina’s life sciences industry has grown by 23 percent since 2019, surpassing 100,000 jobs in 2023 and ranking No. 7 nationally. With average salaries of $121,000, the sector demands a skilled workforce. NCCU and �㽶�� are stepping up to ensure area residents can access these opportunities.