Tyler Junior College is looking to create a third bachelor’s degree program.

The TJC Board of Trustees took official action to develop a Bachelor of Applied Technology degree in public safety during its November meeting.

According to a news release, the college has been [working in close partnership with city, county and state leaders to produce public safety programs of the highest quality.

As an example, TJC’s Law Enforcement Academy graduates consistently have the highest scores statewide on licensing exams and other measures. The academy also is recognized as one of the finest in the state. Its graduates consistently achieve a 100 percent passing rate on their state licensing exams on the first attempt, and agencies across the region choose TJC’s academies over others.

TJC has in place other strong first-responder programs including its Fire Science Academy as well as Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedic, all of which lead to gainful employment upon completion of the programs of study, according to the release.

“There has been strong interest from leaders and governmental units in our region for this program. As our community’s college, we are expected to help meet the growing needs for advanced skills including these critical public safety programs,” Board of Trustees President Mike Coker said. “Applied baccalaureate degrees are targeted to meet the needs of our local workforce, while complementing the work that is being provided by universities and health science centers. TJC will ensure that the programs offered are of an applied nature, skills based and technologically infused to meet documented needs in public safety. TJC’s applied baccalaureate degrees are technology and equipment intensive and rely on laboratories and specialized classrooms that our local first responders want and need in order to keep us all safe.”

TJC’s first baccalaureate degree program, a Bachelor of Science in dental hygiene, began in August 2016. Its second, a Bachelor of Applied Technology in health care technology and medical systems, will begin in January 2019.

In December 2016, TJC advanced from a Level I institution of higher education to Level II. The designation was made by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/Commission on Colleges, which provides accreditation for institutions of higher learning. Currently, there are only three other Texas junior/community colleges with a level II accreditation status.