NASHUA — Beginning this fall, Granite State College will extend the state university system into Nashua, offering a series of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in collaboration with Nashua Community College.
Todd Leach, president of Granite State College, said when he took the position two years ago he saw a gap in Southern New Hampshire. The partnership closes the gap, he said, allowing associate's degree recipients from NCC to seamlessly matriculate into GSC bachelor's programs.
“What we've tried to develop here in Nashua are programs that are perfectly suited to (NCC) associate's degrees,” Leach said. “At the same time, there will be students attending those programs who have associate's degrees from other programs. I think this model goes a long way to providing options there that weren't accessible prior.”
Bachelor's programs in education, psychology, business management and applied studies will be available at GSC's Nashua campus, in addition to two master's degrees — one in science and project management, the other in science and leadership.
Depending on student demand, other academic programs could be added to the list in coming semesters. Leach said a nursing program is likely in the near future.
Students will be admitted by virtue of having an associate's degree from NCC, rather than based on the courses they've taken or the grades they've earned. Graduates of other colleges can apply as normal.
For both colleges, economic accessibility is of key importance, officials said.
Leach said though many students intend to continue studying, they often fail to return after receiving their associate's degrees. By adding a Nashua campus, the schools intend to minimize this.
The collaboration is the first of its kind in New Hampshire. Similar models exist elsewhere in the country.
Though neither schools is expecting a revenue boom, Leach expects for the program to be self-sustaining.
GSC currently has two classroom trailers at NCC. Courses are also available online or at GSC's Concord and Manchester campuses.
Visit bit.ly/MWaNG5, or contact the GSC student information center at 855-472-4255.
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