New NWFSC–UWF partnership will allow local students to pursue four engineering degrees without leaving Northwest Florida
A newly approved partnership between Northwest Florida State College and the University of West Florida will give local students a more affordable path to an engineering degree.
Students can begin at NWFSC’s Niceville campus, then transition to UWF to complete their bachelor’s degree at the schools’ joint campus in Fort Walton Beach—remaining close to their families, jobs and community.
The Florida State Board of Education approved four new Specialized Associate in Arts Transfer degree programs at NWFSC:
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
“A student can start here, stay here and build a successful future here,” said NWFSC President Mel Ponder.
Students will complete foundational mathematics, science, engineering and general education courses at NWFSC before moving into upper-level engineering courses through UWF. The specialized transfer degree includes prerequisites beyond those in a traditional 60-credit Associate in Arts program, helping students transition smoothly.
The additional required credits may qualify for financial aid. Combined with NWFSC’s affordability and the option to live at home, this could make an engineering degree attainable for more students.
The partnership also supports Northwest Florida’s demand for engineers in aerospace, defense, technology, construction, infrastructure and manufacturing. By creating a clear path from a student’s first college course through a bachelor’s degree, NWFSC and UWF hope to prepare more residents for high-demand careers—and encourage them to build their futures locally.
Enrollment details, schedules and anticipated start dates will be announced as implementation plans are completed.
Learn more at NWFSC.edu/engineering.
