The Maricopa County Community College District has received accreditation approval from the Higher Learning Commission for seven bachelor’s degree programs throughout its Valley locations.

According to a press release, MCCCD is the first community college in Arizona approved to offer bachelor's degree programs under legislation signed by Gov. Doug Ducey in May 2021.

“MCCCD remains focused on expanding programs that further support Arizona's education attainment goals, helping 60% of adults attain a postsecondary credential or degree by 2030,” stated MCCCD Chancellor Steven R. Gonzales in the release. “Our seven bachelor’s degree programs will provide affordability, flexibility, and career-focused subject matter to prepare our students to enter a number of high-demand professions.” 

The degree programs are:

• BAS, Data Analytics and Programming: Mesa 
• BAS, Information Technology: Phoenix 
• BAS, Nuclear Medicine Technology and Computed Tomography: GateWay
• BAS, Public Safety Administration: Phoenix and Rio Salado 
• BA, Early Childhood Education - Dual Language: Mesa 
• BA, Elementary Education and Special Education: Glendale, Paradise Valley and Rio Salado
• BS, Behavioral Sciences: South Mountain 

The next steps for MCCCD include receiving approval for federal financial aid funding and establishing course tuition rates and fee schedules before the fall 2023 course registration opens in March.

MCCCD baccalaureate degrees will be similar to other MCCCD degrees and certificates that are:

• designed to get students to their educational and career goals
• affordable at less than a third of university tuition
• taught by experienced, awarded and recognized faculty
• offered in state-of-the-art facilities with small class sizes and the hands-on experiences
• offered at convenient locations via flexible delivery formats

“We are thrilled the Higher Learning Commission has approved these bachelor’s degrees at the Maricopa Community Colleges,'' stated MCCCD Governing Board President Marie Sullivan. “Through hard work, diligence, and perseverance, the Maricopa County Community College District continues to serve as a model – offering significant resources to our growing student population. As the first community college in Arizona to provide these degrees, MCCCD continues to lay the foundation for others to replicate around the state and nation.”

For information, visit www.maricopa.edu/bachelors-degrees.