Radford University, VWCC create pathway for students preparing for careers in data, technology and AI-driven workplaces

Radford University and Virginia Western Community College are partnering to create a new transfer pathway designed to prepare students for careers at the intersection of data, technology, business and artificial intelligence. 

The pathway connects Virginia Western’s redesigned Associate of Applied Science in information systems technology: data analytics and programming solutions degree with Radford University’s Bachelor of Science in information science and systems. The “two-plus-two” program allows students to complete two years at Virginia Western and transfer seamlessly to Radford to complete a bachelor’s degree in two additional years. 

Students who continue at Radford will enter a STEM-designated program that combines coursework in computer science, information systems and business. Radford’s program includes a technical core in database systems, networks, programming and cybersecurity and a business core that includes accounting, management, economics, finance and marketing. Students may also specialize in areas such as decision analytics and cybersecurity management. 

“This partnership reflects what higher education should look like at its best: institutions working together to create clear, affordable pathways to opportunity,” said Donna McCloskey, dean of the Davis College of Business and Economics at Radford University. “Through Tartan Transfer and agreements like this one, students can start close to home, build valuable skills and credentials and continue seamlessly toward a bachelor’s degree and a rewarding career.” 

Virginia Western developed the new program in collaboration with Radford faculty to align coursework with the requirements of Radford’s information science and systems degree. Art Carter, chair of Radford University’s Department of Accounting, Finance and Information Systems, worked with Diane Wolff, professor of computer science/information technology at Virginia Western, and other faculty members to help shape the program. 

“We are excited about this partnership,” Carter said. “Over the years of working with Virginia Western, the students coming to Radford have been well prepared and very successful in their studies here. The Virginia Western program will be a great preparation to finish this program with two additional years of studies.” 

The pathway responds to a changing technology landscape where artificial intelligence is reshaping the skills employers need. While some entry-level programming jobs are expected to change, the demand for professionals who can understand, analyze and apply data continues to grow. 

“Organizations across industries are collecting exponentially more data, and they need professionals who can transform that data into decisions – not just store or manage it,” Wolff said. “This trend drives demand for data analytics skills in addition to technical programming skills, rather than instead of them. The complementarity of analytics plus programming increases employability.” 
Students in the Virginia Western program can also pursue industry certifications, including Oracle Certified Associate in Java, Information Technology Specialist in Database Fundamentals, CompTIA AI Essentials, CompTIA Security+, CAPM Project Management and CompTIA Linux+. 

The new pathway builds on Radford University’s broader efforts to expand access for transfer students. Virginia Western is one of nine Tartan Transfer partner institutions. Through Tartan Transfer, students receive additional support as they move from partner community colleges to Radford University. Programs such as Tartan Transfer and the Radford Tuition Promise help ease the transition to a four-year degree and make a Radford education more accessible and affordable for students across the commonwealth. Transfer student applications and admissions for the fall 2026 semester are up approximately 5% from fall 2025, and enrollment through Tartan Transfer continues to grow. 

For students interested in advancing beyond the bachelor’s degree, Radford’s program also offers the opportunity to continue into a one-year Master of Business Administration program, which is offered online. 

“I’m grateful for both the continuation of our partnership with Radford University and this proactive approach to the need for evolving curricula,” said Amy White, dean of STEM and Workforce Solutions at Virginia Western. “I am proud of the faculty from both institutions who have worked to meet the needs of students in this rapidly changing industry.”