Staff Reports | Community Updates
Maricopa Community Colleges plans to launch three new bachelor’s degree programs in fall 2027: Exercise Science, Health Services Leadership and Law and Legal Studies.
The programs are part of an effort to expand workforce-focused bachelor’s degree pathways across the system’s 10 colleges and address employer demand in growing industries, according to a press release.
“Maricopa Community Colleges have always been a pioneering force in the Valley,” Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, chancellor of the 10-college system, said. “In only three years, we have successfully launched 11 bachelor’s degree programs and celebrated graduates from nine of the programs. Today, bachelor’s degrees have become integrated into our offerings, providing the smart next step for students completing their associate degrees. We are no longer just an option, but rather the most affordable option for a bachelor’s degree in Maricopa County.”
Pending approval from the Higher Learning Commission, students will be able to register for the new programs beginning in spring 2027.
Mesa Community College will offer a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, preparing students for careers in fitness, rehabilitation and related health fields. The program includes a partnership with A.T. Still University that allows qualified students to begin Doctor of Physical Therapy coursework before completing their bachelor’s degree.
GateWay Community College will offer a Bachelor of Applied Science in Health Services Leadership focused on health care leadership, operations and decision-making. Career opportunities include health care administration, public health and health technology.
Rio Salado College will offer a Bachelor of Applied Science in Law and Legal Studies. The program will prepare students for legal paraprofessional and related careers, with specialization options including family, civil, criminal, administrative and probate law.
Maricopa Community Colleges launched its first bachelor’s degree programs in 2023 and has since expanded to 11 offerings. More than 300 students earned bachelor’s degrees during the most recent academic year, bringing the total number of graduates to 600 since fall 2023.
“These three new programs represent our ongoing commitment to creating opportunity for every Arizonan,” Dr. Gonzales said. “With nearly 10,000 students currently enrolled across our 11 bachelor’s degree offerings, the demand for affordable baccalaureate pathways is clear.”
“GateWay is proud to offer a large variety of pathways for students pursuing healthcare professions, and as the needs grow, we are excited to expand our educational opportunities in the Phoenix area. This bachelor’s degree will help create healthcare administrators that lead us into the future,” Dr. Amy Diaz, president of GateWay Community College, said.
Students pay $97 per credit hour for lower-division courses and $145.50 per credit hour for upper-division courses. The system reports that 93% of its students graduate debt-free.
“Mesa Community College has established a reputation for excellence in Exercise Science through our associate’s degree program, personal training certificates, and the dedication of our outstanding faculty,” Dr. Richard Daniel, president of Mesa Community College, said. “The new Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science creates a seamless pathway for students to continue their education at MCC while preparing for careers that promote health, wellness, human performance and rehabilitation. We are excited to expand opportunities for students and meet the growing workforce needs of our community.”
