Central Lakes College makes AA degree available at Staples

Central Lakes College now offers students enrolled at the community and technical college campus in Staples the opportunity to earn an associate in arts degree.

An AA degree is a general studies degree for students who want to transfer after one or two years and then pursue a four-year bachelor's degree elsewhere.

Most classes in the Staples Campus AA degree starting with the 2009 fall semester are scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This will allow students to work more and commute less. Students who are also parents will be able to save on childcare, CLC reported.

"Students will be able to combine traditional, online, and interactive TV classes to create a schedule that works for them," said Wendy Schluender, dean of the Staples campus.

The Staples campus computer facilities are available for online courses, and CLC provides online training. The college also provides advising and support services as well as study groups "live" on the campus.

The Staples campus also has career education programs in communication art and design, photo technology, robotics/automated systems, mechanical drafting, machine trades, diesel and heavy equipment technology, nursing, medical assistant and heavy equipment operation and maintenance.

The fall schedule of courses is available online at www.clcmn.edu and a printed course schedule is available on campuses in Staples and Brainerd. The fall term starts Aug. 24 at CLC.

For more information, contact the admissions office in Brainerd at 855-8037 or Staples at (218) 894-5175.