South Seattle Community College has taken the next step in its plan to offer its own four-year degree - a bachelor's of applied science in hospitality management.

The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the college's regional accrediting body, granted the college informal candidacy to offer the four-year hospitality management degree. This means the first class of students may begin the program in fall 2007.

The commission's decision follows this summer's approval from the State Higher Education Coordinating Board, and the earlier positive vote from the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.

South is one of four two-year colleges in the state selected to offer a four-year degree, which was authorized and funded by the Washington Legislature.

"South's goal of offering a four-year degree that meets the needs of students, aspiring professionals, and industry is now a reality," said Jill Wakefield, college president.

The hospitality management degree will also create an upward career path for graduates with two-year degrees, both from South and other community colleges. Students who might enter the program from South include graduates of its culinary arts and business information technology programs.

Those interested in entering the program should contact Rosie Rimando, director of student outreach, admissions and recruitment, at 768-6691 or rrimando@sccd.ctc.edu.