The college, which mainly offered associate degrees, will feature a business program that is offered as a bachelor's degree starting in the fall semester of 2017.
"Over the past five years, I would say whether we in higher education like it or not, students are becoming more savvy consumers," said Erica Barone Pricci. "They're asking us for the value proposition so not only what does the education cost but what type of quality are you giving me."
The tuition at Lackawanna College is less than $15,000 per year, similar to what you'll find over at nearby Penn State Worthington Scranton.
Dr. Marwan Wafa explained that the school is actively advising students to study at a satellite campus before going to State College as a way to save money.
"There was a time when people would go after main campuses and brand news and not worry about cost," explained the chancellor. "But as we see businesses and industries shrinking in the country, the question of cost is becoming more and more important."
Over at Mid Valley School District, superintendent Patrick Sheehan is seeing more students looking for more affordable options.
And for him, that's a good thing if it means keeping them local for college and beyond.
"I think its very important that we do the best we can to keep students in our area and connected to our communities to build and progress our communities especially in Lackawanna County," said Sheehan.
