Pictured from the left are Mr. Jeff Jennings, Dr. Shaun Phillips, Dr. Rottweiler, Sheriff Dannels, and Chief Brian Jones.
Cochise College has been actively developing two affordable bachelor’s degrees to train the next generation of nurses, first responders and military leaders. The college is excited to announce the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) approved Cochise College to expand its academic offerings by adding two baccalaureate degree programs. Starting in fall 2024, the college will begin classes for:
- Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership, Management and Operations
This expansion marks a significant era in the college’s history to serve the educational needs of its community.
Executive Vice President for Academics, Dr. James Perey, expressed his enthusiasm for the new programs. “Cochise College’s HLC approval of the bachelor’s degrees signifies a high mark of academic excellence,” he stated. “This development represents a major step forward in our ongoing efforts to innovate and provide access to affordable programs that are important to our communities.”
Introducing the bachelor’s degrees emphasizes the college’s commitment to providing educational opportunities that support meaningful careers and lifelong learning. The college will continue offering affordable tuition, small classes and individualized attention from caring faculty and staff – qualities that have defined the college.
Beth Hill, the Dean of Nursing, highlighted the significance of the RN to BSN program. “In today’s evolving healthcare industry, this is an opportunity for nurses seeking to enhance their qualifications or improve job security and career growth,” Hill noted. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is tailored for nurses holding an RN license and aims to facilitate their educational advancement while they continue their professional practice.
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership, Management, and Operations program broadens the career prospects for students in various fields, including first responders and military services. Eric Brooks, Executive Director of the First Responders Academy, emphasized the program’s role in providing a seamless pathway for students to elevate their careers through further education. “Students finishing certificates and degrees through Cochise College can continue their education while opening up new career advancement.”
Applications for the programs are now being accepted, with the fall semester starting on August 19. This initiative follows the passage of Senate Bill 1453 into state law, which permits community colleges in Arizona to offer bachelor’s degrees, signifying a pivotal shift in the state’s approach to higher education accessibility and workforce development.
To learn more about Cochise College’s baccalaureate degrees, visit www.cochise.edu/bachelors-degree-info.