Collaborative efforts are key to the future
Northern Illinois University (NIU) announced that starting in June of 2010, it will offer a Bachelor of Science in Applied Management degree with an emphasis in public safety at Oakton Community College. The program, designed for public safety officials (police officers, firefighters, and emergency management personnel) with a designated Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree from a community college, will allow for a convenient, flexible, and affordable way to earn an accredited bachelor's degree.
Community colleges have a long tradition of extending educational opportunities to a larger population base by offering flexible course schedules, convenient study locations, affordable tuition, and open admission policies. Community colleges are also in the unique position of being able to work with area businesses and industries to develop customized programs tailored to the needs of the region. This collaboration between Oakton Community College and NIU is just one example of how a regional approach can be used to address a regional challenge. We should be able to build upon this collaborative approach to address the work force needs of other industries in our community.
As a State Senator representing some of the communities served by Oakton Community College and a strong proponent of offering bachelor's degree programs at community colleges, I am hopeful that other education institutions will follow suit, forming partnerships that make obtaining an accredited bachelor's degree and the necessary skills for today's competitive job market a reality.
Susan Garrett
Lake Forest
State Senator
29th District