New Agreement with Widener Expands Opportunities
DCCC President Dr. Jerome Parker and Widener University President Dr. James Harris recently signed an educational partnership agreement that creates options for Emergency Medical Technology students and professionals. The agreement allows all 61 credits from DCCC’s paramedic – advanced life support associate’s degree to transfer directly into Widener’s University College Bachelor of Science degree program in allied health.
The Widener program can be completed either as a traditional classroom-based program, offering more than 16 minor options to specialize the degree; or completely online through distance learning. Some courses will be taught by Widener faculty at DCCC.
Walt Yakabosky, DCCC dean of technical education and workforce development, is pleased by the choices the collaboration presents for students. According to Yakabosky, students will be able to elect one of several pathways to the bachelor’s degree, including dual enrollment or transfer.
“Current EMS professionals can earn our associate in applied science degree through a combination of credit for prior learning and general education courses at DCCC, then transfer to the Widener program and earn the bachelor’s degree. Our students already in the Paramedic program can opt for dual enrollment with Widener and earn both degrees concurrently. And current high school students who want to pursue a career in EMS can enter the program as either transfer or dual enrollment students.” Plans call for the transfer program to begin in January 2004 and the dual enrollment program in September 2004.
According to Dr. Parker, the partnership allows DCCC to fulfill several goals in both its strategic plan and College mission. Said Parker, “We are offering access to affordable education, offering our students flexible education options, and developing the local workforce. We are also teaching good career and lifelong learning decision making.” Joining academic partners DCCC and Widener is industry partner Crozer-Chester Medical Center (CCMC).
CCMC provides faculty and equipment for the classes, which are taught at DCCC’s Malin Road Center. In addition, paramedic students do the clinical portion of their program through hospital rotations at Crozer-Keystone Health Systems facilities.
Signing the paramedic studies agreement at Widener: seated in front are Dr. Jerry Parker (left) and Dr. James Harris. Standing, left to right: Thomas McNicholas, DCCC vice president, collegiate instruction, academic and student affairs; Walt Yakabosky; Elaine Karr, DCCC’s program manager, public safety programs; Widener University College Dean Emily Richardson; Dr. Tina Philips, Widener director of marketing and recruitment and academic advisor for allied health; and Widener Provost Dr. Lawrence Buck.