Bill > HB1220

This bill creates a new type of accelerated degree program in North Dakota specifically designed for high-demand occupations. The program allows educational institutions controlled by the state board of higher education to offer alternative degree paths that do not require general education credits, focusing instead on direct professional training. Occupational or professional boards have the authority to designate certain occupations as "high-demand" and can revoke this designation at any time. Importantly, if a student begins a North Dakota accelerated degree based on a current high-demand occupation designation, that degree will still be recognized even if the designation is later changed. The bill also empowers occupational and professional boards to recognize these accelerated degrees as accredited programs for licensing purposes. Additionally, the state board of higher education is granted the ability to create rules to implement this new degree pathway through the standard administrative rulemaking process. The primary goal of this bill appears to be creating faster, more targeted educational routes for students seeking to enter critical workforce sectors.

Education, Labor and Employment

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo1220.html