SCC enhances student experience with new pathways model

Published: 03/12/2019

Big changes are coming to St. Charles Community College’s academic offerings in the form of pathways.

Rather than presenting first-time students with what can feel like an overwhelming amount of choices, this new model will channel students into courses directly relevant to their future major, while also providing a decision-making mechanism to help students match their skills and interests to related degree programs.

“We believe this model will help our students leave SCC better educated and better prepared for the workforce,” said David Cirillo, faculty lead of institutional effectiveness. “With students being more focused and interested in their education, SCC will be producing better students, citizens and workers, which can only be good for the region.”

Students will now choose a particular pathway, based on their skills and interests, rather than needing to choose a specific major at the beginning of their educational experience. This ensures students are taking courses relevant to a degree, even if they are still unsure of what that degree might be.

The overarching pathways that students will select from include arts and humanities; business; computers and technology; education; manufacturing and industry; nursing, allied health and wellness; science, engineering and math; and social and behavioral science. 

After considerable research, college officials determined implementation of a guided pathways model is in the best interest of everyone – students, faculty, staff and the college’s business partners. 

From providing students with a specific educational plan and guiding each student to a meaningful career and directing students to relevant and relatable courses, college officials say the pathways will have many benefits for students. 

Preparatory work for this new pathways model has been underway for quite some time at the college and will officially roll out at SCC with the summer and fall 2019 registration period on April 1. 

St. Charles Community College is a public, comprehensive two-year community college with associate degrees and certificate programs in the arts, business, sciences and career-technical fields. SCC provides workforce training and community-based personal and professional development as well as cultural, recreational and entertainment opportunities. For more information, visit www.stchas.edu.