An open house event is set for the College of the Canyons Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center on Sept. 17 to provide prospective students with information about the Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs, officials said.

These programs are offered by University Center partner institutions, including CSU Northridge, University of La Verne, Brandman University and National University, according to COC officials

The open house event will allow attendees to talk to university representatives, learn about financial aid programs, meet with counselors and submit admissions applications. More information is also available on new University Center programs, such as the Bachelor’s degree program in Clinical Lab Science from National University.

“This degree is introduced in response to the workforce shortage and the community’s need for qualified clinical lab scientists,” said University Center Director Cathy Ritz.

Since its creation in 2002, the University Center has enabled students to earn advanced degrees without leaving the Santa Clarita Valley. Nearly 3,500 students have graduated from the programs offered by the University Center’s partners, according to COC officials.

The current 110,000-square-foot facility—which opened in 2009—continues to offer Bachelor’s, Master’s and credential/certificate programs from various public and private universities, all of which have received approval and accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Cited as the college’s solution to the lack of upper division, graduate school and continuing education programs in the area, the University Center was established with a goal to increase student access to advanced degrees by forging partnerships with surrounding four-year colleges and universities.

Those institutions then make their academic programs available to students through courses offered at College of the Canyons.

The University Center is best accessed via University Center Drive, the southernmost campus entrance on Rockwell Canyon Road. Parking in the campus parking lots 13, 14, and 15 is free for the open house event.

The open house is set for Tuesday, Sept. 17, from 4 to 7 p.m. at 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road.

For more information about the University Center open house event and programs, visit the center’s web page, call (661) 362-5150 or email universitycenter@canyons.edu.

Ed. Note: This information has been provided by College of the Canyons.

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