Kent State has the third largest university system in the state and one of the biggest in the region, with seven satellite campuses.

The university has more or less established itself as the top school in this corner of the state, and the administration has shown that Kent State generates $2 billion to the northeast Ohio economy.

So for Kent State to offer classes toward a bachelor’s degree at Cuyahoga Community College would only solidify the university’s presence as an economic driver.

A story in Thursday’s Daily Kent Stater illustrated the desire of a young Clevelander to get a Kent State degree: She makes the hour-long commute four days a week on PARTA buses.

Classes at Tri-C, which has been suggested but not finalized, would incentivize place-bound Clevelanders to come to Kent State.

With a state budget outlook in the red, Kent State should try to boost enrollment to bring in revenue in creative ways, like partnerships with community colleges. And as Columbus seeks to build more community colleges and degree-granting institutions near Kent State campuses, it can only be beneficial for the university to diversify its offerings.

Most importantly, if Kent State continues to build its regional eminence, a degree from this university will gain value.

And if one student is willing to make a grueling commute to get to class at Kent State, then there must be others with a wish to attend classes here. Kent State would do well for this struggling region to make college even more accessible.

The above editorial is the consensus opinion of the Daily Kent Stater editorial board.