Distance Learning in Engineering Technology at Western Carolina University: Celebrating Success and Looking Toward the Future

Abstract – Distance education for engineering technology programs continues to face challenges in providing quality instruction equitable to resident on-campus programs. Western Carolina University has sought to insure the delivery of quality instruction by taking the baccalaureate engineering technology program on-site to regional community colleges. This paper will provide a brief historical overview of the evolution and delivery of technology based programs at Western Carolina University. Program curricula will be presented along with a description of articulation approaches with regional community colleges. Challenges encountered and opportunities for the future will be discussed