DES MOINES — Today, Rep. Taylor Collins, Chairman of the House Committee on Higher Education, sent a letter to Iowa’s Community College Presidents and Trustees requesting a comprehensive study on the feasibility of establishing baccalaureate degree programs at Iowa’s community colleges following testimony before the committee by the Iowa Association of Community College Trustees.
In the letter, Collins shared “There is unmet demand for baccalaureate education in specific disciplines, especially in rural Iowa and industries not adequately served by Iowa’s public and private four-year institutions.”
The report Collins requested will include:
- A detailed feasibility assessment of allowing Iowa community colleges to offer baccalaureate degrees.
- Recommendations of the scope and structure of such programs.
- A cost-benefit analysis, including estimated funding needs and potential economic returns.
- Legislative and regulatory changes required to implement baccalaureate programs.
In the letter, Collins closed by sharing,“Evaluating the feasibility and impact of Iowa’s community colleges ability to offer baccalaureate degree programs will provide the Higher Education Committee the information it needs to thoroughly evaluate such an idea, and determine this potential role for Iowa’s community colleges.”