Students will pay $155 per credit for in-state tuition. There are no textbook charges and no associated student fees.
Approval of the new degree process is in the final stages of review. If all goes as planned, the new degree program will begin accepting student enrollment as of April for classes that will begin with the fall semester.
YC President Lisa Rhine emphasized that the degree was created to meet the needs of people in the county and to offer a life-changing opportunity within reach. “It’s more than just a degree. It is accessibility to business owners who need flexible training options and skills to increase sales and expand experiences.”
“I believe this is a positive step forward,” said Yavapai County Superintendent of Schools Tim Carter. “Community colleges are uniquely placed in the higher education structure to meet real issues at local levels. Universities need to be more global and philosophical in their approach, while community colleges are working to meet identified educational needs with local partners.”
Prescott Unified School District Superintendent Ron Howard agreed. “For years, Prescott teachers have wrangled with the conundrum that our kids have to leave town after high school. They often do not have the opportunity to live in their hometown for their own career and family. This degree is a huge step to help Prescott be that generational community we have longed to be.”
Humboldt Unified School District Superintendent John Pothast says he is excited for the students. “One of the problems with education in general has been access, and how realistic – or challenging – it is for someone to simply be able to get access to the education they need. This is a significant step forward for anyone living in rural Arizona.”
“It’s gratifying that Chino Valley graduates will have a more affordable local option for a baccalaureate degree,” said Chino Valley School Superintendent John Scholl. “We are hopeful that YC will consider a degree in education to help us address the teaching shortage in the area.”
A Focus on Management and Leadership
When the Arizona Legislature passed Senate Bill 1453 a year ago, Rhine said the college was thrilled to receive the authorization. “We have been at the forefront of the lobbying effort for SB1453. We knew how much impact it can have in our county,” she said.
Rhine explained that the new degree is designed for continuing students or those who have associate degrees. It is offered entirely online and can be completed in the traditional four-year pattern for a full-time student at 30 credits a year. It also can be completed through eight-week classes.
Students will pay $155 per credit for in-state tuition. There are no textbook charges and no associated student fees.
Once final approval is granted, registration for classes can begin April 17. Classes won’t officially begin until the beginning of the fall semester on Aug. 12.
“This is a modern, high-quality degree. The curriculum will be 120 applicable credits specifically designed to help students achieve career success,” said Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Diane Ryan, who noted the work it took faculty and staff members to make the degree a reality. “We are elated for the opportunities that students now have.” QCBN
By Ray Newton, QCBN
Application forms for the new program can be found at yc.edu/bachelordegree.
Photo by Kay Lyons: YC President Dr. Rhine, Governing Board Chair Deb McCasland and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Diane Ryan announced that the business degree program is designed to graduate effective managers and leaders.
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