Delaware Technical Community College: A Comprehensive Overview

Delaware Technical Community College (Delaware Tech) stands as the only community college in the state of Delaware. Established in 1966, it has grown into a multi-campus institution offering a diverse range of academic programs designed to prepare students for both immediate employment and transfer to four-year universities.

History and Establishment

The foundation of Delaware Technical Community College was laid in 1966 with the approval of House Bill 529 by the Delaware General Assembly, signed into law by Governor Charles L. Terry, Jr. The first campus opened in Sussex County in September 1967, with Dr. Paul K. Weatherly as its first president. The initial enrollment of 367 students doubled in the second year, leading to the expansion of facilities with new laboratories and classrooms.

Over the years, Delaware Tech expanded its reach across the state:

1968: A Northern Campus was established, enrolling 375 full-time students in its first year.
1972: Kent Campus was established in Dover in response to a survey indicating significant interest from high school students in Kent County. It was later renamed the "Terry Campus" in honor of Governor Charles Terry.
1973 & 1974: The Stanton and Wilmington locations were opened.
1995: The Southern Campus was renamed the "Owens Campus" to honor its first campus director, Jack F. Owens.

Campuses

Delaware Tech comprises four main campuses:

Jack F. Owens Campus: Located in Georgetown, Delaware.
Stanton Campus: Situated in Stanton, Delaware.
Charles L. Terry Campus: Found in Dover, Delaware, and named after Governor Charles L. Terry, Jr.
Orlando J. George, Jr. Campus: Location not specified in provided data.

Academic Programs

Delaware Technical Community College offers a wide array of credit programs, including bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. These programs are designed to equip students for success in the workforce or to facilitate the transfer of credits to four-year universities. The college also provides developmental and general education programs that impart foundational skills essential for success in college-level coursework and workforce training.

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Types of Programs

Bachelor of Science (BAS) Programs: These programs emphasize courses that enable students to understand the technical aspects of a field. Delaware Tech offers two Bachelor of Science programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Education: A blend of in-person and online coursework with immersive experiences, designed for teacher candidates holding an Associate of Arts in teaching. Graduates become eligible for dual certification in elementary education and special education in Delaware.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing: This program is tailored for registered nurses holding a nursing diploma or an associate degree in nursing, providing advanced knowledge in the nursing field.
Associate in Applied Science (AAS): These programs focus on applied knowledge and skills through program courses, preparing students for immediate employment upon graduation.
Diploma and Certificate Programs: These programs require fewer credits than associate degrees, offering a quicker route to specific employment opportunities.

Areas of Study

Delaware Tech offers over 100 programs in various fields, including:

Applied Technology
Business and Communication
General Studies
Health Sciences
Public Service
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

Accreditation and Articulation Agreements

Many of Delaware Tech's programs are nationally accredited, signifying the quality and rigor of the educational offerings. The college has articulation agreements with 61 other higher learning institutions, facilitating the transfer of credits for students pursuing further education.

Unique Program Features

Advisory Committees: Over 1,000 employers and industry experts participate in approximately 70 Delaware Tech advisory committees to ensure that graduates possess the skills required by the workforce.
Hands-on Experience: Most programs utilize innovative technology and provide hands-on lab experiences that simulate professional work environments.
Connected Degree Programs: Delaware Tech offers more than 100 connected degree programs with area institutions, allowing students to transfer smoothly to a bachelor's degree program.

Athletics

The Delaware Tech Athletic Department operates under the guidance of the Dean of Student Services and adheres to the bylaws and regulations of the National Junior College Athletic Association Region XIX.

The Owens Campus hosts practices for the softball and baseball teams. The baseball team notably won the 2001 NJCAA D2 World Series.
Cross country teams practice at all campuses, with home meets typically held at the Owens campus.
The Stanton campus hosts practices for the men's and women's basketball teams and the women's volleyball team.
The men's lacrosse team is based at the Terry Campus, with practices and home games held at the DE Turf Sports Complex in Milford, Delaware.

Team colors are primarily blue and green.

Enrollment and Tuition

In the 2019-2020 school year, Delaware Tech had an enrollment of 14,029 students.

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For Delaware Technical Community College-Terry, the in-state tuition and fees are $5,445, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $12,308. The average net price for federal loan recipients is $8,028. Six years after graduation, the median salary for graduates is $35,336.

Commitment to Student Success

Delaware Tech is committed to the success of its students, local employers, and communities. The college's faculty and staff are dedicated to providing a supportive atmosphere to help students complete their chosen academic programs. Most faculty members hold advanced degrees and have extensive experience in their respective fields.

Open Admission and Accessibility

Delaware Tech is an open-admission institution, committed to providing accessible higher education to Delawareans. The college offers classes in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, and weekends to accommodate diverse student needs.

Connected Degree Agreements

Delaware Technical Community College has "Connected Degree" agreements and programs with other higher education institutions in the state. Individuals may earn an associate degree at Del Tech and then transfer previously earned credits to other Delaware institutions at a possibly lower cost to the student.

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