@nformer Distance education partnership allows College graduates to obtain a university degree without leaving home apilano College graduates will benefit from a unique and exciting partnership agreement that was signed via videoconferencing on Wednesday, March 24 with distance education leader Athabasca University (Alberta). This understanding will provide degree completion opportunities via distance education to Capilano College alumni in specified fields of study. Graduates will be admitted into the University’s Bachelor of Administration, Bachelor of Professional Arts (Communication Studies), and Bachelor of Science (Computing and Information Systems) degree programs with advance credit toward their degree. This will reduce the time it takes to complete the credential, attained entirely at a distance through home-study. Capilano College president, Greg Lee, is encouraging graduates and students to continue their education to their own personal and professional advantage. “This partnership will allow our graduates to advance their education and enhance their opportunity for promotion without leaving their current jobs,” Greg says. “This improved access will also bring more diversely qualified people into the workplace. “Capilano College is committed to the lifelong learning concept,” he adds. “This agreement with Athabasca University upholds our mission to enable student success in a chosen career, in the pursuit of knowledge, and in contributing effectively as responsible citizens.” Athabasca University’s vice- president Academic, Alan Davis, explains how distance education will allow Capilano College diploma- holders in identified fields of study to upgrade their education to degree level without leaving the workplace or their communities. “The required courses are self- paced, and completed through home- study,” he says. “This will permit students to set their own study schedules — study where and when they can — and will provide ample time to complete each course and a degree. This flexibility provides access for many people who might have been prevented from completing a university degree in the past due to the demands of their work, scheduling difficulties, and geographic location.” John Potts, dean of Business, Human Services, and International Programs, believes the flexibility of distance learning will make the partnership attractive to Capilano College graduates and other Vancouver area residents who are changing .careers, re-entering the workforce, and interested in pursuing a university education on a part- or full-time basis at a distance. “By offering innovative programs and delivery methods, Capilano College and Athabasca University are meeting a growing need of the global community,” he says. Logo designed by Larissa Nahhas, an illustrator in MPS and a graduate of the College’s Graphic Arts and Illustration program. A 100th birthday celebration of the music of Duke Ellington, featuring Nitecap, Rejean Marois, Brad Turner, and the A Band will be held at the Capilano College Performing Arts Theatre on Friday, April 16 at 8 p.m. @ @= Capilano @em College Vol. XX1 No. 4 April 16/99