Harper, Governors State partner for bachelor's degree

A new partnership will let Harper College students get a bachelor's degree in criminal justice without leaving campus.

Under a recently signed agreement with Governors State University, Harper students can first earn an associate degree, take additional general education classes and then complete the GSU Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice degree - but with no commute to University Park.

The program provides students with an excellent opportunity to earn both an associate and a bachelor's degree, at a fraction of the cost of any university in the Chicago area.

"So many students today have jobs and families, and staying local is vital," said Dr. Wayne Johnson, coordinator of Harper's law enforcement and justice administration program. "A lot of existing law enforcement personnel who need to continue their education are also going to appreciate how affordable and accessible this program will be."

Classes begin in spring. All courses will take place at the Harper Professional Center in Schaumburg.

The new partnership with Governors State is part of a growing trend in higher education to earn an advanced degree closer to home, according to Eric Rosenthal, Harper's director of academic advising and counseling. Harper has similar agreements in nursing with Northern Illinois University and Benedictine University. Last fall, Harper and Eastern Illinois University teamed to offer a bachelor's degree in general studies.