Bill > SB2482

This bill amends the Public Community College Act to allow community college districts to establish and offer baccalaureate (four-year) degree programs under specific conditions. The bill aims to increase access to higher education, particularly for underserved and rural populations, by enabling community colleges to grant bachelor's degrees in applied fields. To do so, community college boards of trustees must meet several requirements, including demonstrating unmet workforce needs, obtaining appropriate accreditation, ensuring tuition remains affordable (not exceeding 150% of lower-division course rates), and focusing on improving racial and socioeconomic equity in student access. Colleges must submit a detailed application to the State Board, including information about labor market needs, program purpose, student demand, faculty qualifications, and fiscal resources. The bill requires community colleges to submit annual reports tracking student enrollment, degree completions, workforce data, and tuition costs. Additionally, the State Board is mandated to conduct a comprehensive statewide evaluation of these new baccalaureate programs within five years, assessing their implementation, student demographics, workforce impact, employment outcomes, program costs, and student financial considerations. The legislation emphasizes that these new degree programs do not alter the fundamental mission of community colleges and are intended to complement existing higher education pathways.

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2482&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104