Glendale, AZ- It’s a common saying that opportunity is around every corner. Some opportunities however require more foot work than others as is the case with a new Cell Molecular Biology degree program. The catch is that this degree will be offered by WNMU at Glendale Community College in Arizona.
This new program in Glendale is meant to allow students living in that area to earn a full four-year degree where they would otherwise only be able to earn a two-year degree. “It took a lot of work to get this program established because it is a new idea.” said Dr. Jose Herrera, the Dean of The Collage of Arts and Sciences, “It took a lot of effort to convince the right people, recruit students, get the applications processed, create the curriculum, and develop the relationship between us and Glendale.”
“A two year degree in Micro Biology won’t do it anymore,” said Dr. Jeff Hill, Department Chair of Natural Sciences. “Glendale can offer a Bachelor’s of Science in Micro Biology through Western.” Hill continued by saying, “Their professors will be teaching our classes. The staff at Glendale is absolutely amazing. They are completely qualified to teach these classes.” Besides location, there is key difference between the degree offered here and the one that will be offered in Glendale.
“The Micro Biology degree here at Western is more orientated towards the medical field,” explained Dr. Hill, “The program at Glendale will be focused on genetic engineering.” Genetic engineering is the artificial modification of an organism’s traits. Glendale Community College has capability to teach Micro Biology for genetic engineering but lacks the necessary accreditation to offer a four-year degree. Western, on the other hand, has the accreditation to offer a Bachelor’s meaning this is a win-win situation for all parties. This is especially true for both Western and Glendale students.
“This program gives place bound students in Arizona a chance to earn a four year degree.” Dr. Herrera said, “However Western students will have unique opportunities with this new plan. Students who do go to Glendale will have a lot of opportunities for internships.” The additional location will allow for students and resources to be shared between Western and Glendale. This is program is indeed ambitious and unprecedented however it is hopefully just the beginning of a larger plan.
“We’re going to see how well this integrated model works and what adjustments must be made.” commented Dr. Herrera, “However it is our hopes that this program leads to bigger and better things.” If this program is a success then it may not be out of the question to see similar programs in other disciplines. Despite some needed logistic work, there are 23 students in Glendale that are singed up to take the WNMU Micro Biology classes this fall. Dr. Herrera concluded by saying:
“These students may be in Glendale but they are Western students. They will be wearing purple and gold just like the students in Silver.”
