BERLIN, N.H. (AP) – College students in northern New Hampshire are getting a boost.

The state’s two public higher education systems are combining to make it easier for North Country residents to get two- and four-year degrees.

Officials from the state university system and the Community Technical College System have agreed to combine programs and courses in their Berlin and Littleton locations.

The university system’s Granite State College will move its Gorham/Berlin Center to the Community Technical College’s Berlin Campus by Jan. 1, 2006. The Littleton programs already are under one roof.

The Community Technical College will be responsible for awarding associate degrees at Berlin and Littleton. Granite State College will offer upper level courses that lead to a baccalaureate degree.

University system Chancellor Stephen Reno said the collaboration may expand to other parts of the state.