Beaufort County Community College (Beaufort CCC) is expanding its global learning opportunities through a new partnership with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Through UNC World View, a global education initiative of UNC-Chapel Hill, Beaufort CCC is now part of the Scholars of Global Distinction program.
The program allows community college students to earn a global learning certificate from UNC-Chapel Hill while completing their associate degree. It offers a structured yet flexible pathway for students to deepen their understanding of global issues and cultures through coursework, intercultural activities, and experiential learning.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for our students to realize that there are different ways of looking at the world, different perspectives, aside from what we may see here every day,” said Dr. Dave Loope, president of Beaufort CCC.
Students in the program complete 15 credit hours of globally intensive courses already offered at Beaufort CCC. They also participate in eight international activities or dialogues, many of which are made available throughout the year by UNC World View.
In addition, participants engage in 30 hours of global experience through study abroad or domestic intercultural learning. Beaufort CCC’s Study Abroad Program, led by Suzanne Stotesbury, will work closely with the Scholars of Global Distinction initiative to help students meet this requirement. Options will be available for those unable to travel internationally. Students finish the program by completing a capstone project that ties together their global learning journey.
Graduates of the program are recognized during Beaufort CCC’s commencement ceremony. Students who transfer to UNC-Chapel Hill will continue to receive guidance and support from UNC World View to ensure a smooth transition.
The program has seen tremendous growth across the state. “We started in 2014 with just three community colleges. In 2019, we had 12. We’re now at 37,” said Dr. Hazael Andrew, associate director of UNC World View. “This year, we had our largest graduating class—181 students.”
Faculty are also invited to participate. UNC World View offers a $750 stipend for instructors who want to redesign courses with a global perspective. Year-round professional development opportunities are available for faculty interested in integrating international content into their teaching.
Ben Deck, lead instructor for communications, social sciences and health, serves as Beaufort CCC’s liaison for the program. Students or faculty interested in learning more can contact him at [email protected] or visit worldview.unc.edu.