Western Carolina University has increased the number of degree completion programs it offers in Henderson County to three.

Western, in partnership with Blue Ridge Community College, will offer a bachelor of science degree-completion program in elementary education in Henderson County beginning in August.

Other bachelor of science programs already offered by Western at Blue Ridge Community College are birth-kindergarten education and business.

“The new program is evidence that Western Carolina University and Blue Ridge Community College are committed to extending the educational opportunities available to residents of Henderson County and surrounding areas,” said Oak Winters, dean of WCU’s Division of Continuing Education and Summer School.

Classes will be offered at Blue Ridge Community College on its campus in Flat Rock using interactive, two-way video technologies or over the Internet.

The program is open to persons who hold associate of arts or associate of science degrees, or have completed 60 semester hours of college-level study. Individuals who have earned bachelor’s degrees and want to obtain K-6 licensure also are welcome.

Information sessions for the program will be held at 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 19, in Room 235 of the Sink Building on the BRCC campus. For more information, contact the WCU Office of Henderson County Programs at 828.694.1829.