Jacksonville College will begin offering its first fully online associate degree program in May.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has approved the college’s request to offer 50 percent or more of the credits for degree and diploma programs via electronic distance learning (online courses).

“This approval shows their faith in the educational degree we are providing to our students,” academic dean Lynn Nabi said. “This will provide long-term stability and growth for Jacksonville College.”

The new online degree program will benefit students who have difficulty physically commuting to classes.

The flexibility of being able to arrange classes around their own schedule and from any location will allow many students to earn a degree while saving time and money that would otherwise be spent commuting to and from campus, according to a news release.

Individuals with difficult work demands, family responsibilities, physical limitations or generally busy schedules will be able to attend virtual classes on their own schedules. Students from all over the world will now be able to earn an associate degree from Jacksonville College without stepping on campus.

Registration is ongoing, and tuition rates are reduced for Maymester and Summer I and II. Summer Pell Grants are available for those who qualify.

All Maymester courses will be online courses. The Summer I and II and Fall 2015 terms will offer online and traditional face-to-face courses. Maymester courses are scheduled for May 14 to 29. Summer I will run from June 2 to July 2, Summer II will run from July 8 to Aug. 6, and Fall 2015 will run from Aug. 17 to Nov. 24.

Full course schedules are available at www.jacksonville-college.edu.

Online application for admission is available for new students, and current students may register for classes online.

Jacksonville College subscribes to the Texas Common Course Numbering System, and core course credits easily transfer to participating institutions.