DANVILLE, Ill. (WAND) — Governor Pritzker's budget address proposed a piece of legislation that would allow community colleges to develop and offer four-year baccalaureate degrees.
Danville Area Community College Interim President Dr. Randy Fletcher says that the community college system -- which connects 45 community colleges in 39 districts -- has been working on expanding their programs for years. "Having it be recognized at the state level and the budget address is a great win for community colleges." he stated.
The proposed legislation would allow working adults to have easier access to 4-year programs. "The community college baccalaureate is a natural progression for those students that are looking for those skills to go to the workplace, as quickly as possible." Dr. Fletcher stated.
The proposal would also cap the tuition rates at 150% of their regular tuition, for the additional two years. "If it remains within the community college, systems, it appears that there's going to be a much lower cost for the junior and senior year of that applied baccalaureate." Dr. Fletcher explained.
The legislation would create the opportunity for colleges to create 4-year programs to meet workforce needs in their community. Dr. Fletcher said although their are no set plans in place for DACC, nursing, IT, and manufacturing would be pathways that they could develop into 4-year programs.
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