The Higher Education Coordinating Board has voted to approve South Seattle Community College's Bachelor of Applied Science in Hospitality Management, moving the college closer for the program to begin in fall 2007.

The Legislature granted authority and provided funding for the college to offer the degree. The next step for South will be an application to the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities for interim accreditation status.

Assuming approval is received, the first class of incoming students will matriculate in the fall of 2007.