Scott Turner
In Motion Staff Writer
Daytona State has added another bachelor’s degree to its catalog, continuing to answer Governor Rick Scott’s challenge to make affordable bachelor’s programs available at state colleges. The price of the degree is $10,000 provided that all the requirements are met and is targeted towards first time students.
The goal of the challenge was put forth by Governor Scott several years ago.
“I am issuing a challenge to our state colleges to find innovative ways to offer a bachelor’s degree at a cost of just $10,000 in fields that will provide graduates with the best opportunity for employment,” Scott said in a press release.
The degree was approved by the Board of Trustees on March 27 in an unanimously approved decision.
“We’re very excited to be able to offer this affordable pathway to first-time-in-college students who have a passion to pursue teaching careers. It’s a great value and opportunity,” Said Carol Eaton, President of Daytona State College.
The degree requires work on the side of the student, requiring them to have nine hours through AP or dual enrollment, earn their Associate of Arts degree within 66 attempted credit hours, carry a minimum 2.5 GPA, and earn at least a ‘C’ in all courses once enrolled in the degree.
The degree will offer seven different areas of focus in elementary and secondary education. These areas include Elementary Education, Exceptional Student Education, Secondary Mathematics Education, Secondary Biology Education, Secondary Earth/Space Science Education, Secondary Chemistry Education and Secondary Physics Education.
The degree fully covers the educational courses, competency tests and practical experience required to obtain a five year Florida Professional Educator’s Certificate. It will become available on July 1 and can be taken in a full or part time capacity. Half and half courses are a staple of the degree and applicants must first complete their A.A. degree before entering the program.