Bermuda College bosses are keeping their fingers crossed Government will give them the green light for what could be one of the biggest developments in its history.

The college is seeking funding for student residences which it believes will set the seal on plans to become a university college -- offering full-time degree courses and attracting overseas students.

College president Dr. George Cook said the plans, which he hopes could be included in the next Budget, will allow the college to expand its operations dramatically.

He sees the accommodation as the vital factor in not only attaining university status, but also attracting students from overseas. The revenue from foreign students would be vital in generating revenue and ensuring the facility is not a burden on Government, he said.

And the college would aim to offer two flagship courses in subjects that Bermuda has been famous for -- hospitality and international financial services.

"We have made a presentation to Government for funding. We won't hear until later this year or early in the New Year,'' he said. "We hope to get it in the next budget and we hope they will look upon it favourably.

"The residences are central to future development of the college.

"Students could come from North America and the Caribbean. They would only come if we offered the kinds of programmes they wanted, if they were related to a university college, not associate degrees.

"They won't come for associate degrees, we have got to have degree power.

"I believe, and that is a personal view, we could get a programme up and running by September 2002. We could start with one and then go from there.'' Offering courses that correspond with Bermuda's reputation is seen as vital, he said.

Planning permission in principle has already been granted for the 140 bed accommodation, along with plans for a post office, day care and other teaching facilities.

The accommodation, which could cost between $4.5 and $5 million, would house both local and overseas students.

Mr. Cook said a survey showed there was strong local support for a dormitory, adding that it would give local students experience of other cultures.

The residences could earn money, being open 12 months of the year and being used as accommodation for adults taking special programmes at the college during the summer, he said.

In addition, the college would like to have a centre for business and entrepreneurs, catering to the needs of the business community. The planned post office would be built on college grounds in return for a day care centre, he added.