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between SCC,
UNC a winner
The UNC system’s arrangement to provide four-year bachelor degrees through some of the state’s community colleges is a natural progression that will help thousands of students earn degrees closer to home.
As North Carolina has gained population, the state’s fine public universities, many of which are nationally recognized, have become harder to get into. Yet, professions like nursing and teaching are experiencing serious shortages, especially in rural areas like Columbus County.
UNC-Wilmington (teaching) and UNC-Pembroke (nursing) have long been the universities of choice for many Columbus County students seeking these professional paths.
Through an arrangement with Southeastern Community College beginning this year, students can get bachelors degrees from UNC-W and UNC-P in teaching and nursing without leaving home.
The advantages to students are obvious – less time on the road and significantly decreased costs in tuition, room and board, and travel.
The program also helps SCC, which struggles to grow its enrollment because the local population from which it primarily draws is static. The addition also bolsters SCC’s already respected nursing program.
Additionally, taxpayers benefit because universities in the UNC system don’t have to add more teaching space and dorm rooms.
This new initiative is a good example of where potential turf battles have been pushed aside for the benefit of many. The state’s community college system and UNC should look to do more partnerships like this excellent one. It’s a win-win for everyone.