Competition in the higher education industry and the list of higher ed opportunities in Bossier City is growing. Virginia College will soon be opening its doors at Pierre Bossier Mall in Bossier City.

     Campus President Lisa Ramirez says one of the reasons for the new college is the curriculum that's offered. She says this isn't about taking students from other school campuses, but about helping people. "I see us as not to much in competition but providing a unique opportunity for those who are seeking to change their lives," said Ramirez.

        So what's the difference in the tuition at Virginia College compared to that of Bossier Parish Community College? The estimated cost of an Associate Degree in Business Administration at Virginia College is $36,960. It would take about 15 months to complete the required courses. That's according to the college's website which points out that tuition costs can vary by campus. At BPCC a degree in Business Administration will cost around $5,300 over a four semester period. That's a difference of $31,656 in tuition.

        And there's some good news for BPCC. The summer 2012 enrollment reached 2,851 students, marking the 4th consecutive summer with record enrollment in the school's history. Virginia College began enrolling students in April. Classes in the new campus will begin in July.