Columbia College announced its new “Tech to teach” partnership with the S.C. Technical College System on Oct 24.

This partnership will launch on Aug. 15, 2024, and will last for five years. 

Participating institutions include Central Carolina Technical College, Denmark Technical College, Midlands Technical College, Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College, Piedmont Technical College, Technical College of the Lowcountry and Tri-county Technical College.

The program is designed to enhance the preparation and transfer of students from these technical colleges to Columbia College’s online degree programs in early childhood education and special education, benefiting those seeking a career in education.

“At Columbia College, we have a passion to educate and equip our students for personal and professional success, which requires innovative approaches to teaching and learning. Columbia College has been educating some of the state’s finest teachers for decades, using creative methods to graduate high-quality educators,” said Executive Vice President and Provost of Columbia College Kristine Barnett in a press release. “Since 2018, our Alternative Pathways for Educator Certification (APEC) Program has been aiding district employees in acquiring their teaching certification. Our goal with ’Tech to Teach’ was to widen our reach, providing new pathways for a new audience: South Carolina Technical College students. With the help of SCTCS, we were able to make that goal a reality.”

Students who complete an associate's degree in applied science with a focus on early care and education at an S.C. technical college will have access to this newly formed program.

They will also receive specialized advising and exam preparation during their time at the technical college.

“The ‘Tech to Teach’ partnership is a testament to our commitment to expanding opportunities for students across South Carolina,” Vice President for Academics, Student Affairs and Research at SCTCS Rosaline Sumpter said in the press release. “By providing a seamless pathway from technical college to a four-year degree in education, we are not only enhancing access but also addressing the critical need for qualified teachers in our communities. This collaboration reflects our dedication to student success and the future of education in our state.”