PCC/NAU 90-30 Program Offers Educational Bargain

June 12, 2009

Tucson, AZ – As the Arizona budget deficit continues to balloon, state universities have lost funding and their students face unprecedented increases in tuition rates and fees. More than ever, students and their families need a break.

Here it is. Since 2008, there has been a way to earn a Bachelor’s degree from an Arizona university for a bargain. It’s called the “90-30 Bachelor’s Program” and it’s available at Pima Community College through a partnership with Northern Arizona University.

Participating students earn a PCC Associate of Arts Degree, a PCC Certificate in Leadership and an NAU Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with options in either Humanities or Public Management. The four-year program requires 120 credits, 90 of which may be earned at Pima during the first three years. During the fourth year, students take 30 units of NAU coursework held on Pima campuses.

John Merren, PCC Division Dean for Business and Liberal Arts, estimates the cost of completing a Bachelor’s through the 90-30 Program at $11,400. In comparison, he estimates it would cost $28,000 to attend the University of Arizona for four years based on current tuition rates and $25,000 to attend NAU in Flagstaff for four years, not including the added costs of lodging and transportation.

The program was established in 2008 and is a great option for students and families struggling with the cost of higher education in challenging economic times. PCC guarantees the availability of the required PCC courses for participating students. Students interested in the program can find out more from a PCC advisor or counselor.

CONTACT:
A. Rachelle Howell, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Marketing
(520) 206-4850