Stark State College partners with Franklin University for affordable four-year business degree; fall enrollment now open

NORTH CANTON, Ohio, July 30, 2026 – Stark State College has announced a new degree path in partnership with Franklin University, offering students a streamlined and budget-friendly route to a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Registration is officially open for the upcoming fall semester.

Designed to eliminate heavy student debt, the program allows students to complete their first three years—up to 94 credit hours—at Stark State’s low tuition while earning an Associate of Applied Business in Business Management. For their final year, students transition to Franklin University to finish their upper-level bachelor’s degree requirements. Coursework is 100% online, offering flexibility for students balancing work, family and other responsibilities.

“Through this coordinated 3+1 partnership, students can build momentum toward a four-year degree without leaving their local community or taking on traditional university debt,” said Dan Fuline Jr., Ph.D., department chair of management, marketing and culinary arts at Stark State College.

The coursework covers core business strategies, ethical leadership, decision-making methods and emerging topics such as business applications in AI. Graduates leave equipped for dynamic roles in operations, human resources, marketing, project coordination and management.

Prospective students interested in starting this fall can learn more, view program details or apply directly on the Stark State + Franklin University program page.