North Carolina Unveils Project Kitty Hawk for Adult Education

News Summary

North Carolina has launched Project Kitty Hawk, a $97 million initiative aimed at enhancing online education access for adult learners. This ambitious program targets to enroll 45,000 non-traditional students by 2027 through a collaborative effort involving the University of North Carolina system and the North Carolina Chamber of Commerce. The project has already introduced several degree programs across multiple universities, addressing workforce needs and bridging the education gap for adult learners in the state.

North Carolina Launches Project Kitty Hawk: A New Era for Adult Learners

In an exciting development for education in North Carolina, the state has embarked on an ambitious journey with Project Kitty Hawk—a hefty $97 million initiative aimed at boosting online education access for adult learners. This program is all about creating opportunities for those looking to further their education and careers, and it’s generating a buzz across the state.

The Genesis of Project Kitty Hawk

The initiative was fueled by support from state lawmakers in 2021, who recognized a pressing need to provide more online degree options through the University of North Carolina (UNC) system. With the aim of enrolling 45,000 non-traditional college-aged students by 2027, this initiative sets the stage for significant change—especially considering the current enrollment figures stand at just 22,000.

A Platform for Progress

Central to this initiative is a newly developed online platform designed to support universities in critical areas such as admissions, marketing, coaching, and curriculum design. While Project Kitty Hawk provides the technological backbone, it’s the individual universities that will handle the actual courses and degree programs. This structure allows for a tailored approach that meets the unique demands of each institution while maximizing the potential reach.

Understanding Workforce Needs

Collaboration is key, and Project Kitty Hawk is working hand-in-hand with the North Carolina Chamber of Commerce. This partnership ensures that the degree programs developed are aligned with the evolving needs of the workforce, a vital step in creating a skilled and adaptable population.

Launching Degree Programs

As part of this initiative, several degree programs have already launched at North Carolina Central University (NCCU). Adult learners can now explore an information technology degree and a pathway for registered nurses to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Additionally, a Bachelor of Business Administration program is on the horizon.

East Carolina University is also joining the fray, kicking off four new degree programs: Psychology, Criminal Justice, Information and Cybersecurity Technology, and Multidisciplinary Studies. These offerings are designed to meet the diverse interests and career aspirations of prospective students.

Expanding Partnerships

Looking ahead, Project Kitty Hawk has plans to incorporate more universities into its fold. By June 2025, a third university is expected to join, followed by two more in both fiscal years 2027 and 2028. This means that by the end of June 2028, a total of seven universities will be part of this initiative, greatly enhancing the range of options available to adult learners.

A Shift in Business Model

In light of recent regulatory changes, the project has pivoted its business model. Instead of a revenue-sharing approach, universities will now pay a fee for services—though these fees won’t kick in until the degree programs are self-sustaining. This strategic shift aims to ensure sustainability while effectively supporting educational institutions.

Bridging the Education Gap

Project Kitty Hawk is also addressing a significant gap in adult education in North Carolina. Currently, the state is projected to miss its goal of enrolling 2 million adults with a degree or credential by 2030, with a shortfall of around 70,000 individuals. With several hundred thousand adults aged 25-44 possessing some college education but no degree, this initiative makes strides toward bridging that gap.

Conclusion: A Bright Future

As traditional college enrollment declines, Project Kitty Hawk presents a fresh opportunity for non-traditional students to pursue their educational goals. With a structured approach to online education, the initiative is set to not only transform the landscape of higher education in North Carolina but also empower countless adults to achieve their dreams. It’s truly an exciting time for education in the Tar Heel State!