St. Petersburg College Expands Educational Offerings with New Bachelor's Degrees

St. Petersburg College Expands Educational Offerings

St. Petersburg College (SPC), a pioneer in higher education since 1927, is taking significant steps to stay ahead of workforce demands by launching three new bachelor’s degree programs. As the job market evolves, the need for specialized knowledge and training is paramount, and these new offerings reflect that commitment.

New Degree Programs

The recently introduced bachelor's programs include:
1. Cardiopulmonary Science
2. Secondary English Education
3. Digital Media

Each of these degrees targets specific areas where there is a considerable gap in expertise and labor supply, ensuring that SPC students are well-equipped for their future careers.

Cardiopulmonary Science Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Cardiopulmonary Science addresses the evolving landscape of healthcare jobs, particularly in respiratory therapy. According to Steven Hardt, the Program Director, hospitals are increasingly favoring candidates with baccalaureate degrees for clinical roles. This program caters specifically to registered respiratory therapists, offering them advanced education in critical areas such as neonatal, pediatric, and adult respiratory care. Moreover, the curriculum includes elements of leadership, management, and research, preparing graduates not just as practitioners but as leaders in their field.

Secondary English Education Bachelor of Science

Understanding the pressing need for quality educators, SPC's Secondary English Education program is designed to fill teacher shortages in Florida. With endorsements available in Reading and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), this degree aims to enhance graduates’ employability. Heather Duncan, Dean of SPC's College of Education, emphasizes that these endorsements will significantly boost the marketability of new teachers, positioning them as highly competent candidates in a competitive job market.

Digital Media Bachelor of Applied Science

In an age dominated by technology and creativity, the Bachelor of Applied Science in Digital Media aims to equip students for various roles in a rapidly changing digital landscape. Barbara Hubbard, Dean of Arts, Humanities, and Design at SPC, points out that this program is focused on improving employability, offering pathways to stable careers that go beyond freelance options. Graduates can aspire to become art directors, marketing managers, and other vital roles that leverage their creative skills while responding to industry needs.

About St. Petersburg College

As Florida's first two-year college, SPC has consistently evolved to meet the needs of its students and the surrounding community. The college now offers over 200 associate and bachelor's degree programs alongside industry-recognized certifications developed in collaboration with industry experts. This focus on practical skills ensures that graduates are not only academically qualified but also ready to meet the challenges of today’s workforce.

With these new bachelor’s degrees, St. Petersburg College is not just keeping pace with shifting employment trends; it’s actively shaping the future workforce. By prioritizing relevant education that responds to real-world demands, SPC is poised to elevate its students and, by extension, the communities they serve. With a continued emphasis on growth and adaptability in educational offerings, SPC remains a critical player in Florida’s higher education landscape.