Bill > HSB533

Introduced Session

This bill authorizes community colleges to offer a degree program that leads to a baccalaureate degree and that satisfies all of the following requirements: the degree program consists of programs of study or academic majors that lead to jobs that address a high-demand, sustained, and unmet workforce need within the community college region as shown by the community college, and the instruction provided within the degree program is not delivered entirely over the internet. Under current law, community colleges may offer up to two years of liberal arts, preprofessional, or occupational instruction that partially fulfills the requirements for a baccalaureate degree but that confers no more than an associate degree. The bill requires the state board of education to adopt rules prescribing standards and procedures for the authorization and oversight of baccalaureate degree programs offered by community colleges. The tuition for residents of Iowa for courses offered as part of a baccalaureate degree program at a community college shall not exceed 150 percent of the tuition charged to residents of Iowa for traditional community college courses. The boards of directors of community colleges are authorized to establish or modify any policies, seek any accreditation, and employ any staff necessary to offer a baccalaureate degree program.

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No sponsors listed

Other Sponsors (1)

Committee vote: Yeas, 9. Nays, 1. Excused, 1. H.J. 181. (on 01/28/2026)

Official Document