South Seattle Community College received approval to offer a bachelor of applied science degree in hospitality management.

South is one of four community colleges selected to offer a four-year degree in a pilot program authorized by the Legislature. The proposed program now must be reviewed by the state Higher Education Coordinating Board..

Approval also is needed from the college's accrediting agency, the Northwest Association of Colleges and Universities, which is expected to issue its decision in the fall.

The first classes would begin in September 2007 with 20 students, expanding to 40 students in the second year.

"This new four-year degree builds on South's well-regarded Culinary Arts program," said Dr. Jill Wakefield, college president. "It will offer place-bound and under-served students a pathway to a four-year college education, with opportunities to attain management-level responsibilities and earn higher lifelong wages."