A Trailblazer: The First Community College in the Nation to Launch a Degree of Its Kind
Yavapai Community College has unveiled a groundbreaking offering: a three-year bachelor’s degree in Applied Science and Business. This initiative marks the college as the first community college in the nation to offer a bachelor’s degree that can be completed in just three years.
According to Yavapai Community College President, Dr. Lisa Rhine, the program requires students to complete only 92 credit hours—approximately 30 credits fewer than a traditional bachelor’s degree. “It’s built for speed, flexibility, and career readiness, enabling students to graduate in just three years,” Dr. Rhine said.
Tuition for the program is set at $169 per credit hour for the fall 2025 semester—significantly lower than the cost at most colleges and universities. Moreover, the program is designed to be highly affordable, with no textbook costs and no student fees.
Registration for the program is now open, with classes beginning on August 18.
You may view Dr. Rhine’s announcement of the program on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZvCn_sOjB4.