ChattState's BlueHorizon Students Guaranteed Transfer Pathway to Bachelor’s Degree at ETSU
July 8, 2026 | Payton Potter | Student Success, Event
It takes more than just ambition to succeed. That’s where BlueHorizon comes in.
A registered apprenticeship from Chattanooga State Community College and BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, BlueHorizon allows students to work full time and gain hands-on experience while getting paid and earning a degree.
A new agreement between ChattState and East Tennessee State University now guarantees those same students the opportunity to earn a bachelor's degree.
Transfer agreements create seamless pathways to four-year universities, meaning BlueHorizon students may earn an associate degree in Health Sciences from ChattState before going on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Professional Development from ETSU, all while working for BCBST.
"We are proud to continue expanding access to real careers, hands-on training, and affordable pathways to success,” said Dr. Rebecca Ashford, ChattState president. “Through innovative partnerships like BlueHorizon and this agreement with ETSU, ChattState students have more opportunities to learn, grow, and achieve their goals."
Students who transfer from ChattState can continue their education and increase their job prospects, both within BCBST and with other area employers.
“The BlueHorizon program was established to provide a direct pathway for students looking to accelerate their careers,” said Bradley Leon, executive director of the BlueHorizon program at BCBST. “We’re grateful to our partners at Chattanooga State and ETSU for giving these students a way to continue their education beyond an associate degree.”
For BlueHorizon students, the program offers more than just a path to education or employment—it offers access to opportunities that previously seemed out of reach.
“I never thought I would have a career fresh out of high school,” said BlueHorizon student Janiyah Walker. “I will be making a salary. I will have health insurance. I will have a 401(k). I never thought I would have this at 18.”
BlueHorizon’s next cohort will begin recruiting in August 2026, with classes beginning in 2027.