Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

Illinois Senate Bill SB3787

Introduced
2/9/24  
Refer
2/9/24  
Refer
2/28/24  

Caption

COM COL-BACCALAUREATE DEGREE

Impact

If enacted, this legislation could significantly impact the landscape of higher education in Illinois by expanding the role of community colleges. These institutions will be able to confer bachelor’s degrees, allowing them to fulfill increasing workforce needs without requiring students to commute to distant universities. The bill also ensures that programs are tailored to local labor market demands, which could result in a more directly applicable education for graduates, subsequently aiding economic development in local communities.

Summary

SB3787 amends the Public Community College Act to grant boards of trustees at community colleges the authority to establish and offer baccalaureate degree programs. This is aimed at increasing educational access for individuals seeking higher education within their local communities, particularly targeting underserved populations and residents from rural areas. The bill recognizes the growing importance of four-year degrees in applied fields and seeks to address the demand for skilled professionals in Illinois by enhancing the educational offerings of community colleges.

Contention

There may be contention regarding the potential overlap with existing universities that offer similar programs, raising questions about resource allocation and competition within the higher education sector. Concerns about financial implications and the feasibility of funding for these programs could also arise. Additionally, some stakeholders may argue over whether community colleges should expand their focus from associate degrees to four-year degrees, as the latter could alter their mission.

Provisions

SB3787 stipulates that community colleges meeting specific conditions can confer bachelor’s degrees and mandates that these colleges submit annual reports to the Illinois Community College Board. The report must detail student enrollment, completion rates, workforce data, and program costs. Furthermore, a statewide evaluation of all baccalaureate programs is required after five years, ensuring that these programs are effectively meeting the educational and workforce demands of the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IL SB2482

COM COL-BACCALAUREATE DEGREE

IL HB3717

COM COL-BACCALAUREATE DEGREE

IL SB2986

BD HIGHER ED-COLLAB BAC DEGREE

IL HB3328

COM COL-BACHELOR'S DEGREE

IL SB3132

HIGHER ED-COMM COLLEGES-MISC

IL SB2250

COM COL-OUT OF DIST-TUITION

IL HB1630

NURSING DEGREE PILOT PROGRAM

IL HB4057

COMM COLLEGE-FAST TRACK PROG

IL HB3151

COM COL-PUBLIC SERVICE-LOANS

IL SB1275

PRIVATE COLLEGE CAMPUS POLICE

Similar Bills

IL SB2482

COM COL-BACCALAUREATE DEGREE

IL HB3717

COM COL-BACCALAUREATE DEGREE

IL HB3328

COM COL-BACHELOR'S DEGREE

NJ S526

Concerns NJ PLACE, allocates $300,000 for FY2020.

IL SB1988

COLLEGE PRESS-PUBLIC MEDIA

IL HB1630

NURSING DEGREE PILOT PROGRAM

HI SCR110

Urging The University Of Hawaii West Oahu To Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs In Agricultural Technology, Food Science, And Education.

HI SR116

Urging The University Of Hawaii West Oahu To Establish Baccalaureate Degree Programs In Agricultural Technology, Food Science, And Education.