Cochise College and Kaplan University, leaders in higher education innovation, have announced an articulation agreement that will allow associate degree recipients and employees at the college to get an advanced start on their bachelor’s degree through a special transfer credit program.

The transfer program allows students to take courses beyond their associate’s degree at Cochise and then transfer their credits to Kaplan, where they could finish their bachelor’s degree in less than two years. Cochise College students will also be eligible to receive a 20 percent tuition reduction on the university’s more than 200 online academic programs.

“It is so important today that everyone have access to non-traditional education opportunities at accredited universities,” said Jaime Cocuy, vice president for Kaplan University’s Strategic Alliances Organization. “Now Cochise College students, alumni, and employees can continue their education, save money and potentially graduate early through this unique transfer opportunity.”

Kaplan has partnerships with community colleges across the country. For information about these partnerships, please visit www.cc.kaplan.edu.

“Cochise College values its university partnerships because they make bachelor’s and advanced degrees accessible to our students, many of whom have aspirations above and beyond an associate degree,” said Dr. Verlyn Fick, vice president for instruction. “Students with jobs and families need access to quality education in order to advance in their careers, and online programs like those offered by Kaplan University put it within reach.”

About Cochise College
Located in rural, southeast Arizona, Cochise College serves approximately 15,500 students in credit and non-credit classes per year. The college serves students at campuses and centers in Douglas, Sierra Vista, Benson, Fort Huachuca, Nogales and Willcox, as well as via the Internet. The institution provides general and technical education leading to a variety of certificates and associate degrees that transfer to a number of universities. Cochise College also provides an array of community services, including adult education, workforce training, small-business counseling, and personal enrichment courses. Rural, southeast Arizona provides a rich landscape of unique learning opportunities related to Mexican culture, the Old West, and natural history. The college also is home to outstanding athletic programs and hosts cultural and arts programs, conferences, and visitors from both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. The college is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

About Kaplan University
Kaplan University strives to help adult students unlock their talent by providing a practical, student-centered education that prepares them for careers in some of the fastest-growing industries. The university, with a main campus in Davenport, Iowa, and headquarters in Chicago, is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Kaplan has more than 200 academic programs and offerings, and serves more than 61,000 online and campus-based students. The university is part of Kaplan Higher Education, which serves more than 92,000 students online and through more than 70 campus-based schools across the United States and abroad. Kaplan Higher Education schools offer a spectrum of academic opportunities, from certificates and diplomas to graduate and professional degrees, including a juris doctor degree. Kaplan Higher Education is part of Kaplan, Inc., a leading international provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. Kaplan, Inc. is a subsidiary of The Washington Post Company (NYSE: WPO), and its largest division.