Quinsigamond Community College to Open Southbridge Location

Worcester, MA – In response to surging student demand, Quinsigamond Community College will open a state of the art satellite location this fall in Southbridge, MA, within the complex of the former American Optical Co. QCC is the most affordable higher education in the county and is pleased to be coming to the South County neighborhood with a dramatically expanded presence. While the College has offered evening courses at Southbridge High School for over 35 years, the new facility at 5 Optical Drive will operate during day, evening and weekend hours, offering a broad and expanded array of both credit and non-credit courses. “Southern Worcester County residents have long deserved optimal access to affordable college educational opportunities and career training that will help stimulate local business growth and job opportunities,” according to QCC President Dr. Gail E. Carberry. “We have worked to create an alliance with the Central Mass South Chamber of Commerce, elected officials, area business leaders, school systems and community based organizations to support a new and critically needed regional educational facility.” QCC is the fastest growing community college in New England, enrolling more that 7,000 students each semester. Currently, more than 1,000 students attend Quinsigamond from the South County area. Escalating gas prices and limited mass transit access pose problems for over 100,000 residents within the southern most points of QCC’s service area.
The 2009 – 2010 year of operation will emphasize popular courses, with full degree and certificate options available by fall 2010. In addition to quality educational facilities, students will have access to a range of Southbridge Hotel and Conference Center amenities at a nominal cost, including the swimming pool and fitness center.
For information about classes and registration, call 1-877-QCCFORME (722.3676) or visit www.qcc.edu/qcc-southbridge.