Beginning fall 2023, a new state waiver will make the Fire Science and Law Enforcement associate degree programs at South Texas College more affordable and accessible.
A new tuition model introduced by STC will waive 90 percent of student fees for eligible local, licensed law enforcement professionals and firefighters.
The first 100 personnel who take advantage of this offer for fall 2023 will get the few remaining fees paid off through scholarships provided by STC’s Foundation.
“Our new flat-rate tuition model is going to provide many more opportunities to our local peace officers and firefighters,” said STC Vice President of Information Services, Planning, Performance and Strategic Initiatives David Plummer. “Taking advantage of this new fee waiver is going to take their careers to the next level.”
Experience To Education
Through this new initiative, licensed peace officers and firefighters can use the experience they’ve gained in the field for college credit, up to 23 hours toward an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Law Enforcement or up to 26 hours toward an associate degree in Fire Science Technology.
“We are affording the chance of career advancement for our local law enforcement and firefighter professionals, which can result in an increase in pay,” said Plummer. “And with the flexibility of our programs, they can work from anywhere at any time to make this happen.”
Both programs are offered throughout STC’s campuses and available online. Upon successful completion and awarding of an associate degree, students can continue their education in one of five bachelor’s degree programs offered at the college, with up to 60 credit hours transferred from their associate degree.
STC is the only community college in the state to offer five bachelor’s degrees, which are also 100 percent online. Students can pursue a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership, Computer and Information Technologies, Operations Management and Medical and Health Services Management. The college also offers a bachelor’s degree in Nursing.
“We are encouraging anyone interested in taking their career to the next level to call us and take advantage of this opportunity, where they can save time and money,” said Plummer.
STC is currently accepting applications for the tuition waiver for fall 2023.