Chattanooga State Community College and Bethel University have partnered to offer Chattanooga State graduates direct and easy access to an online program that awards a bachelor’s degree upon completion.  Designed by Bethel University specifically for Chattanooga State graduates, the program accepts up to 80 hours of college credit and applies this credit towards a bachelor of science degree in management and organizational development.  To facilitate a seamless transition into the bachelor’s degree program, Bethel has established a recruitment office on Chattanooga State’s main campus and hired a recruitment representative, Jeff Knox.  A graduate of Chattanooga State and Bethel University, Mr. Knox will be the Bethel liaison responsible for recruiting students into the Bethel University bachelor’s degree program.

To celebrate the launch of this creative initiative, Bethel is offering a discounted tuition.  For Chattanooga State students who enroll for the 2009 fall term, tuition rates will be $250 per credit hour.

Dr. Fannie Hewlett, vice president for academic affairs at Chattanooga State, underscores the possibilities created through this relationship.   “Chattanooga State students have an unparalleled opportunity to quickly and efficiently complete a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university,” notes Dr. Hewlett.  “Accessing a quality educational program during an economic decline can be challenging; however, the Bethel program is the exception.  Coupling low tuition with a highly-valued degree program offers our graduates a comfortable choice.”

The Bethel University bachelor’s degree in management and organizational development provides students with a relevant academic program that ensures students develop the essential knowledge and personal skills necessary to be competitive in the current workforce.  As an online option, this initiative presents a contemporary alternative for students who are seeking an enriched, robust education and are hoping to complete their baccalaureate degree in 14 to 19 months.  Students learn using a responsive and friendly online instructional system and customized textbooks.  Even though the courses are self-paced, Bethel’s faculty will guide and direct students, keeping them focused on their academic objectives.  Furthermore, students will receive a laptop computer; an accommodation that affords flexibility and convenience relative to students accessing their courses.

“Bethel University, like Chattanooga State, combines a solid tradition of academic excellence with an innovative approach to adult education,” says Chattanooga State President Dr. James Catanzaro.  “Bethel’s online bachelor’s program is an affordable, accessible and effective solution for our graduates.  Chattanooga State measures its success by the accomplishments of our students, and this unique alliance is an endorsement of our commitment to support the educational aspirations of our students.”

To contact Jeff Knox about the Bethel University bachelor’s degree program offered to Chattanooga State graduates, call 423.697.5577 or email Mr. Knox at knoxj@bethel-college.edu.  Mr. Knox is located in Room R10 in the Omniplex building on Chattanooga State’s main campus.

For information about Chattanooga State Community College and its educational programs, call the Chattanooga State information hotline at 423.697.4404 or toll free at 1.866.547.3733 or visit the college’s Web site at www.chattanoogastate.edu.

Chattanooga State Community College is a comprehensive, regionally accredited community college, operated under the policies and guidelines of the Tennessee Board of Regents College System.  Founded in 1965 and serving a six-county area in Southeast Tennessee, Chattanooga State offers a wide array of programs and services.