Young Harris College earned approval Tuesday from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) to begin offering bachelor’s degrees in the fall of 2009.

The announcement came at the end of the 2008 SACS Annual Meeting in San Antonio.

SACS approved Young Harris’ plans to offer bachelor’s degrees in biology, business and public policy, English and music. These degrees represent a major in each of the college’s four academic divisions.

"We are pleased to offer our students the opportunity to stay at Young Harris and earn their bachelor’s degree," said Young Harris President Cathy Cox. "And this is only the beginning. Our strategic plan calls for adding majors on a regular basis over the next few years."

In anticipation of expected growth, Young Harris is constructing new buildings and hiring additional faculty.

Founded in 1886, Young Harris College is a private, liberal arts college located in the mountains of North Georgia.