HLSCC expands training, eyes Bachelor’s Degrees

The H Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) is moving to expand its training and academic offerings, including plans to introduce Bachelor’s degrees in the Virgin Islands, according to its president, Dr Richard Georges.

Georges said the college has already started the process.

“We have submitted to our accreditor for the accreditation for the Bachelor’s of Education. That will be our first programme,” Georges told the Talking Points show.

He explained that once approval is granted, the college intends to begin rolling out the programme and allow existing students to transition directly into degree-level study. “The hope is that we can matriculate directly into the bachelor’s degree,” Georges added.

Currently, HLSCC offers certificates and associate degrees that constitute the first two years of a traditional four-year university pathway. Georges noted that students can complete an associate degree locally and then transfer abroad to complete their studies.

The move toward Bachelor’s degrees forms part of a broader strategy to expand access to higher education within the territory. Georges described the institution as the BVI’s “national institution of higher education” and emphasised its role in creating opportunities for Virgin Islanders.

In addition to academic programmes, the college continues to widen workforce training across sectors such as maritime, hospitality, construction and financial services. Georges said the institution must remain “ambidextrous” to meet the territory’s varied needs, balancing academic pathways with practical training.

The college is also strengthening international partnerships to support student progression. Agreements have been signed with universities in the United Kingdom, allowing students to enter degree programmes abroad after completing two years locally.

Looking ahead, Georges said the college will not attempt to offer all disciplines at the degree level but will focus on areas aligned with the Virgin Islands’ economy.

He added that tuition assistance is expected to remain available for associate-level study, while Bachelor’s programmes would carry fees, though they are designed to remain accessible. “There has to be a tuition in order for the college to be able to sustain this,” Georges said.

The expansion signals a shift toward delivering full degree pathways locally, reducing reliance on overseas study and broadening training opportunities in the territory.