EDUCATION: New 90/30 degree equals success, affordability

Chandler-Gilbert Community College and Northern Arizona University have teamed up to make earning a bachelor's degree easier and more affordable than ever, thanks to a new 90/30 partnership program.

CGCC and NAU will begin offering the 90/30 bachelor degree program this fall. It will allow CGCC students to take their first 90 college credits at CGCC and their final 30 credits through NAU - all without ever leaving CGCC's Pecos Campus.

These credits will apply toward specific NAU bachelor's degree programs. Students transferring to the 90/30 degree programs can apply approximately 30 more community college credits toward a bachelor's degree than current two-year transfer degree programs, which translates into substantial savings in tuition.

NAU Program Coordinator Ellen Nymark says the 90/30 program is great for students with credits from more than college or university, or those who have earned credits without completing a degree.

"One of the key benefits though is the affordability," Nymark said. "This is Arizona's most affordable path to a bachelor's degree. Because students can transfer up to 90 credit hours from CGCC towards this NAU degree, they are able to take advantage of the low community college tuition rates. Also, financial aid is available through special consortium agreements for 90/30 students."

Four bachelor degrees will be offered through the CGCC and NAU 90/30 partnership: a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of science in interdisciplinary studies with an emphasis in public management and a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of science in interdisciplinary studies with an emphasis in humanities.

Nymark says students who wish to accelerate their course work will have the option to take online classes in conjunction with in-person classes. Students will work with their NAU adviser to develop a plan that best meets their educational needs.

a"Northern Arizona University strives to bring access and affordability to students throughout the state," said NAU President John Haeger. "The 90/30 program is one more example of how our institution can work hand in hand with community colleges to deliver higher education opportunities where and when they are needed."

For more information, call Ellen Nymark at (480) 732-7243 or access www.cgc.edu/nau.

CGCC is located at 2626 E. Pecos Road in Chandler.