Community colleges are moving at the speed of life. These institutions, which have been traditionally known for two year associate’s degrees, are now also offering bachelor’s degrees. This means that many two year institutions are double their years and doubling their opportunities to eligible students across the country. If you’re a student and are a little strapped for cash, you can now look to community colleges to earn a reputable four year degree!

Take the state of Florida, for example. As one of the first states to establish four year degrees at community colleges, the local government has expanded the degree programs in fourteen different schools. With this new plan, Florida students can take advantage of getting the most educational bang for their buck.

This is no isolated incident! Seventeen states are jumping on the bandwagon and offering bachelor’s degrees at their local community colleges. From traditional programs such as teaching and nursing to contemporary programs in engineering technology and culinary arts, these former “junior colleges” are breaking the mold and shattering old beliefs about community colleges.

These community schools are offering exciting and practical degree programs like veterinary technology to students who are looking to further their career. As more and more states establish legislation that allow students to earn bachelor’s degrees from community colleges, students will find that they have a lot more educational options. For instance, students can take advantage of non-traditional programs such as personal training and theology. Students are raving about this progression, praising the programs and teachers for helping them explore new career possibilities.

Many students choose community colleges because they do not have the money or the time to earn their bachelor’s degree at another university. Some have large families to care for, limited commuting options, and heavy financial burdens. However, these new baccalaureate programs are offering an affordable way for thousands of students to have a better future.

Do you go to an on campus college or do you take part in online education? Have you done both? Which do you prefer and why? Please add your two cents to this discussion about the pros and cons of both. Your advice is valuable to people trying to take the next step in reaching their full potential.