Warren (WWJ)  -- Macomb County's need for a 4-year institution was answered with Monday's announcement by Wayne State University to expand their advanced technology program at Macomb Community College's South Campus.

Two institutions are teaming up to develop the Wayne State University Advanced Technology Education Center at Macomb's South Campus in Warren. The center will be home to Wayne State's new advanced technology and business-oriented program offerings in Macomb County.    

The announcement was made by Wayne State President Jay Noren and Macomb President James Jacobs, who said it's designed for non-traditional college students in areas where demand is strong.

"I think, as new presidents, we can start afresh and say 'let's do it!' And I think the enthusiasm and the energy by our staffs is going to drive this faster than we realized," Noren told WWJ Newsradio 950's Ron Dewey.

The WSU Advanced Technology Education Center will be a full-service extension center of the university. A bachelor's degree program in engineering technology was introduced this fall, and the other degree programs will be rolled out gradually, starting with the winter term this January.    

Warren Mayor Jim Fouts hopes the program will take advantage of their City Hall and the G-M Tech Center. "I'd like to see some sort of research facility, an educational facility, in that area," Fouts said. "I think that's gotta be the focus -- on research that would promote some alternative types of jobs that are environmentally friendly," he said.

"The expanded WSU course offerings on Macomb's South Campus will provide greater convenience for Macomb residents who plan to pursue advanced technology degrees that are increasingly in demand by employers in today's rapidly changing workplace," Noren said. "Graduates of these programs will provide a readily available and technically savvy workforce for employers, which will help drive the economic revitalization of Macomb County, the region and the state."    

"Macomb Community College is committed to encouraging and helping greater numbers of county residents earn the post-secondary credentials vital to their personal success, as well as the future economic health of the county," Jacobs said.

"This new level of partnership with Wayne State demonstrates Macomb College's focus on responding to the evolving needs of our community by developing the resources and partnerships necessary to enhance sustainable employment options, support meaningful business growth and contribute to a high quality of life," he said. 

For a detailed list of Wayne State courses available at Macomb Community College, visit http://macomb.wayne.edu.