North Wake News

Enrollment in Project Kitty Hawk's online degree programs has surged by 65% since Fall 2024, with the number of students rising from 558 in September to 923 in January. In total, over 1,100 students have participated in these programs since their inception in October 2023.

Project Kitty Hawk collaborates with North Carolina Central University, Appalachian State University, and East Carolina University. These institutions recently received commendations from U.S. News and World Report for their online offerings.

The nonprofit affiliate of the UNC System aids public universities in North Carolina to develop online degree programs aimed at adult learners. The "Flight Path" programs focus on fields such as cybersecurity, nursing, and accounting.

Philip Rogers, Chancellor of ECU, remarked on the partnership: “ECU has long been recognized as North Carolina’s leader in online education. Our partnership with Project Kitty Hawk has amplified our mission to serve the people of Eastern North Carolina and across the state.”

Heather Norris, Interim Chancellor at App State said: “Appalachian State University was founded with a mission of increasing access to education...Our partnership with Project Kitty Hawk — under a year old — is helping us deliver on that promise.”

NCCU Chancellor Karrie Dixon expressed enthusiasm about expanding online learning opportunities: “North Carolina Central University is thrilled to partner with Project Kitty Hawk...Together, we are not only shaping the future of education but also transforming lives and communities.”

Appalachian State improved its position by 24 spots in the U.S. News rankings for best online bachelor’s programs. East Carolina boasts three top-10 ranked online master’s programs nationally. NCCU's Bachelor of Business Administration program earned high marks both statewide and nationally.

Andrew Kelly, CEO of Project Kitty Hawk stated: “North Carolina has the best public universities in the country...We’re seeing strong growth, and just as importantly we’re hearing great feedback from our university partners.”

Beyond Flight Path initiatives, Project Kitty Hawk's re-enrollment efforts have brought back 3,700 students who had previously left without completing their degrees.

UNC System President Peter Hans commented on this progress: “From the Flight Path programs to the re-enrollment effort...this is just the beginning.”