Workers at two Colorado Springs businesses are taking advantage of a new program that lets them earn a degree through Colorado Technical University without having to leave their offices.

Launched in January, the Community-Business Partnership program creates satellite operations of CTU degree programs at local businesses.

Working students save precious time and gas money by attending classes in the same office where they work and studying for degrees that cater to the skills of their industry.

"We work through their schedule - we can do a class at lunchtime, virtually, or after their day ends" said Mike Boyd, vice president of the Community-Business Partnership.

CTU has partnerships with two companies - Progressive Insurance and Honeywell Corp. A third will begin in the fall.

"It just makes our employees more well-rounded employees," said Denny Tom, a manager at Progressive.

Employees who complete degrees through the program will be rewarded at Progressive with greater opportunities for advancement, Tom said.

At Progressive Insurance, workers can choose between earning a bachelor's degree in information technology or a master's in science and management.

About 20 workers are enrolled in the bachelor's program, with more than 120 interested in signing up for the fall semester, said Tom.

Computer Sciences Corp., a technology consulting firm, created its own degree, a master's in enterprise technology, through a mix of CTU classes and alternate course work. The program starts in the fall.

"(Continuing education) is just necessary in these days with the speed of technology, in order to stay relevant and be prepared for their next jobs," said CSC program manager Colen Willis.

To learn more about the Community Business Partnership, contact Boyd at 590-6805.