Programs would be developed jointly by the Illinois Community College Board and the Illinois Board of Higher Education. Supporters say the change would help students earn degrees closer to home while balancing work and family.
The focus on career and technical education appears to be a driving factor in the enrollment growth at Illinois community colleges, providing students with opportunities in trades, short-term certificates and healthcare.
A bill that would allow Illinois community colleges to offer bachelor’s degrees in high-demand fields has been revived in the House. Some legislators are still against the proposal, citing that the bill would hurt minorities and underfunded universities.
