Hill College celebrates one year at the Burleson Higher Education Center with expanded courses for students this spring

  Jessyca Brown
  Thursday, January 4, 2024 8:29 AM
  Academics, Enrollment Management

Hillsboro, TX

BHEC science labIn January of 2023, Hill College, along with Burleson Independent School District (BISD) and the City of Burleson, opened the Burleson Higher Education Center (BHEC). Coming up on its one-year anniversary this January, the center is flourishing with nearly 400 students enrolled for the fall semester and continues to expand course offerings for both dual credit and traditional college students.

After a multi-year collaboration with Burleson ISD and the City of Burleson, the renovations at BHEC were made possible by a $1 million contribution by the City intended for beautification of the campus to promote higher education and economic development, as well as funds from a bond package from the BISD Facilities Advisory Committee.

“The Burleson Higher Education Center is a powerful example of how partnerships between higher education, local school districts, and city municipalities can work together to positively impact communities. The opportunities this impressive facility provides current and future students in the Burleson area are immeasurable,” states Dr. Mills. “The Hill College community is grateful to the Burleson leaders and the faculty and staff who continue to work so relentlessly who have made this venture not only a reality but a success.”

Enhancements to the facility included state-of-the-art science labs and technology-advanced classrooms, a full library with both study and meeting spaces for students as well as a commons space for student gatherings, a dedicated area for faculty, and a courtyard for students to congregate and socialize.

The City of Burleson, in conjunction with Hill College and BISD, has worked to expand higher education opportunities that, when combined with the Burleson Opportunity Fund and the Burleson Collegiate High School, ensure that every graduate and community member in Burleson and the surrounding area has access to quality higher education. 

“We are so grateful for the partnership that we have with BISD; the facility at the Burleson Higher Education Center has made that relationship and the student experience even more superior for our students, faculty, and the staff of Hill College. We continue to work to offer more courses and technical programs for the students and community of Burleson,” said Vice President of Student Learning & Success Irene Accomando.

Hill College has had a presence in Burleson since December 2005, allowing area residents to take college courses, complete degrees, receive job-related certifications, and job training. In 2016, Hill College partnered with BISD to establish the Burleson Collegiate High School, offering students the opportunity to earn an associate degree at no cost.

This spring, Hill College is offering expanded courses for students with more flexibility and more time slots for in-demand classes.

At BHEC, additional courses include first-level certification classes for business management, additional in-person science lab classes in state-of-the-art labs, core classes for health career paths, as well as advanced contemporary math and science courses that are required for certificates and degrees for health and public service careers.

The Johnson County Campus in Cleburne is also offering expanded core courses, as well as hybrid and additional evening classes.

Contact advising for more information on all spring classes! The spring semester (16 week and 8 week) begins January 16, 2024. Call 817.295.7392 or email advising@hillcollege.edu.