News at 4Cs

Cape Cod Community College Launched New “Blue Economy” Degree With Enrollment Open Immediately

With the new Frank and Maureen Wilkens Science and Engineering Center now opened on their West Barnstable campus, Cape Cod Community College has launched a STEM-focused degree enabling students to take further advantage of the new space. With classes starting as early as October 31, the College has launched an “Applied Economics of Coastal and Ocean Environments” Associate Degree.

The program, dubbed “The Blue Economy Degree,” focuses on the economic activities related to the oceans, seas, and coasts of Southeastern Massachusetts, and the modern careers and economic development associated with its growth. With a focus on both the necessary science to ensure long-term sustainability of the environment, and applied economic and environmental theories that will help the region prosper, the degree is the first of its kind in the Commonwealth.

“Across our region, the unique natural environment and the stewardship of the resources that surround us empower our economy,” said Dr. John Cox, President of Cape Cod Community College. “This degree acknowledges the two-pronged need for sustainability and economic opportunity. The courses students will take allow them to learn both economics and entrepreneurialism and applied scientific skills. It’s perfect for students that care about the environment and want to see the Cape and Islands thrive into the future.”

The Blue Economy Degree is referred to as an “interdisciplinary” program where students learn a wide range of skills that impact the Blue Economy. This includes courses in hospitality, entrepreneurship, aquaculture, technology, media/communications, and sustainability. All students in the program will have the opportunity to complete an internship with a local Blue Economy-based business, including opportunities with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute and the Aquacultural Research Corporation.

“This is a game changing opportunity for our region,” said Dr. Kathy Vranos, Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs for Cape Cod Community College. “We know how passionate our communities are about sustaining the land and seas that make us both a unique place to live and a destination for others to visit. This degree fills a unique hole in strengthening our local economy, preparing a new generation of creative and passionate learners that can bridge the gap between business and sustainability.”

First-semester courses including English 101, Economics 117, and Biology 109, are open now with start dates of both October 31 in a 7-week format or January 23 in 14 or 7-week formats. Application to the program and to Cape Cod Community College is free and offers guaranteed acceptance. Financial Aid, grants, scholarships, and payment plans are available along with support for essential needs, like transportation, housing, food, and mental health services.

You can learn more about the courses included in the Blue Economy Degree program here, or you can reach out to Cape Cod Community College’s Admissions team for more information and how to register.