RLC teaming up with Missouri Baptist University to offer two bachelor’s degrees

INA, Ill. (Jan. 7, 2015) - Rend Lake College students interested in the behavioral sciences can now take advantage of two new bachelor’s degrees offered by Missouri Baptist University (MBU) on the Ina campus.

The Bachelor of Science (BS) and Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees in Behavioral Science have three different focus points: psychology, sociology, and social work. Students will complete the RLC associate degree program in their field of interest before taking the remaining credit hours from MBU on the RLC campus.

The Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work degrees at RLC require 64 to 66 credit hours to complete. After any necessary prerequisites, the program takes four semesters for a student attending full-time, and part-time students can extend that time over several semesters. Specifically, the programs prepare students for continued education at a four-year institution like MBU.

RLC Psychology Professor Dr. Jeannie Mitchell said this new opportunity for students is not one that should be taken lightly.

“The attainment of a degree drastically increases the marketability one has in today’s job market,” said Mitchell. “The Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work programs all require continued education beyond an associate degree, and this prospect Missouri Baptist is bringing to our front door is just that opportunity for our students and community.”

Both baccalaureate degrees have been approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education and are enrolling now for the Spring 2015 semester. Students looking to complete the BS degree are required to take additional math and science classes, whereas the BA degree requires enrollment in Spanish.

Currently, MBU offers a BS and BA degree in Criminal Justice at RLC. Several other bachelor’s degree programs are in the works, including a Bachelor’s Degree in Management, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, and a Master’s Degree in Counseling. MBU has higher education accreditation.

For more information about the MBU programs or to register, contact Dr. Julia Schroeder, MBU Dean of the Southern Illinois Regional Learning Centers, at 618-925-4425 or schroederj@mobap.edu. RLC has ongoing open registration for the Spring 2015 semester through Jan. 9. To register at RLC, contact the Academic Advisement Center at 618-437-5321, Ext. 1266.