Northwest Kansas now has greater access to bachelor’s degrees through a new partnership between Colby Community College and Newman University.

Representatives from each college celebrated the partnership in Colby during a signing ceremony Aug. 24 in the Robert Burnett Student Union. Through Newman’s Higher Education Rural Experience (HERE) program, students who earn an associate degree from Colby can pursue select bachelor’s degrees without leaving the region.

Initial degree-completion opportunities include radiologic technology, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing and education, with the potential to add more programs as the partnership develops.

"Colby and communities throughout rural Kansas continue to face a critical need for qualified educators and nurses," said Seth Carter, president of Colby Community College. "The HERE program provides our students with an opportunity to pursue these high-demand careers without having to leave the communities they call home. By creating accessible pathways to advanced degrees, we can help strengthen our local workforce and keep talented individuals in Northwest Kansas. We are excited about the opportunities this partnership with Newman University will provide our students and the communities we serve."

Courses will be available through a combination of in-person, evening and online formats, allowing students to continue working and managing family responsibilities while completing their education. Most students can earn a bachelor’s degree approximately two years after completing an associate degree.

Affordability is also central to the partnership. Eligible students may qualify for Newman scholarships of up to $20,000 annually and a dollar-for-dollar match of federal Pell Grant funding. Depending on financial aid eligibility, some students could reduce their annual cost to as little as $750.

“Newman University was founded as a women’s college in the middle of the Great Depression to provide access to women who didn’t have access to education,” said Alden Stout, vice president for academic affairs at Newman University. “That mission of access and serving all people is really why we’re here today. It’s a unique partnership because it allows access to face-to-face courses and bachelor’s degree completion right here in Colby.”

Colby is the seventh Kansas community college to participate in the HERE initiative. The lineup of program offerings could expand as regional needs evolve. Another community college in the partnership began with three degrees and now offers 10.

Enrollment is open. To learn more or apply, visit CCCNewman.com.