Representatives from Harrisburg Area Community College and Duquesne University met recently to sign a Direct Transfer of Students agreement, which will make it easier for students to earn a degree from both schools. Under this agreement, students who earn an associate degree at HACC are guaranteed that up to 60 of their credits will transfer seamlessly into a junior-level standing in Duquesne's School of Leadership and Professional Advancement. HACC graduates can attend locally at Duquesne's Capital Region Campus in Wormleysburg.

Duquesne University's School of Leadership and Professional Advancement (SLPA) offers accelerated bachelor's degrees in computer technology, communication, and leadership at the Capital Region Campus. They also offer courses on weekdays in Hershey. Students entering with an associate degree can complete their bachelor's in as little as two years, by attending classes only on Saturdays or entirely online.

"Like HACC, we know that our adult students have many responsibilities, and we tailor our programs and services to meet their unique needs," said Benjamin Hodes, dean of the SLPA. "We are also delighted to strengthen the relationship between HACC and Duquesne."

HACC students transferring to Duquesne will be treated to the same opportunities for financial aid and registration as any non-transferring student in Duquesne's SLPA program. Students also will have equal access to all other student services, such as libraries, campus facilities, and advising programs.

"It is becoming more apparent that by working alongside such highly regarded institutions as Duquesne University, HACC graduates have more choices, more success in their career paths, and can stay relatively close to home," says Edna V. Baehre, president of Harrisburg Area Community College. "At this time, with tight budgets just about everywhere, our agreement with Duquesne is one way to help students pay for a college education."

This is the most recent addition to a series of arrangements HACC has negotiated with regional colleges and universities to provide students more choices and opportunities in reaching their higher education goals.

For more information regarding HACC's agreement with Duquesne University or other four-year colleges, interested students can contact HACC at 1-800-222-4222, or visit www.hacc.edu. More information on Duquesne University's accelerated bachelor's degree programs at the Capital Region Campus is available at www.leadership.duq.edu/crc.

HACC's Gettysburg Campus will also host a potluck dinner and performance by Dr. Pedroza on Friday, November 22, beginning at 5:30pm and the performance beginning at 7pm. The public is invited to bring a dish to share to the Community Room. The Gettysburg Campus is located at 731 Old Harrisburg Road, next to the Weis Market in Gettysburg. If attending, please contact the Gettysburg Campus at (717)337-3855, ext. 3031 (English), or (717)337-3855, ext. 3149 (español).