Ullin, IL – (February 21, 2025) – Shawnee Community College (SCC) proudly supports new legislation backed by Governor J.B. Pritzker to allow Illinois community colleges to offer baccalaureate degrees in high-demand fields. The proposed bills, Senate Bill 2482 and House Bill 3717, aim to expand affordable, accessible, and flexible higher education opportunities while addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in key industries.
Data indicates a significant shortage of baccalaureate degree workers in operations management and entrepreneurship, healthcare administration, and various digital technology fields, including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and virtual reality (VR) programming. If granted the opportunity, SCC would target these areas for Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degrees, ensuring students gain the skills needed for in-demand careers while remaining in their communities, which preserves the taxpayer’s investment in their education.
“At SCC, we are committed to providing high-quality, affordable education that meets the needs of our students and local employers. By offering baccalaureate degrees in high-demand fields, we can bridge the gap for working adults and place-bound students who need flexible, career-focused education options. This legislation would be a game-changer for our region, expanding access to well-paying career opportunities while strengthening the local workforce and economy,”
– Dr. Tim Taylor, President, Shawnee Community College.
Expanding Career Pathways at SCC
Shawnee Community College has identified key workforce-aligned degree programs that would directly benefit Southern Illinois, including:
- Operations Management and Entrepreneurship
- Healthcare Administration and Technology
- Digital Technology (Cybersecurity, AI, VR Programming)
These programs would provide hands-on, career-driven education, allowing students to earn a bachelor’s degree locally without the financial and logistical burdens of relocating.
A Broader Vision for Illinois’ Workforce
This legislation builds on successful Community College Baccalaureate (CCB) programs in 24 other states, including Indiana, Missouri, Ohio, and Florida, where such programs have expanded degree attainment, reduced student costs, and helped address workforce shortages.
Governor J.B. Pritzker highlighted the importance of expanding access to four-year degrees through community colleges:
“Illinois has long been a leader in expanding educational opportunities and preparing our workforce for the jobs of tomorrow. By allowing our community colleges to offer baccalaureate degrees for in-demand career paths, we are making it easier and more affordable for students—particularly working adults in rural communities—to advance their careers while strengthening our state’s economy.”
State leaders and education officials have also voiced their support:
“Community colleges have opened up educational and employment pathways for many people who might otherwise not have access to the many opportunities out there,” said State Senator Dale Fowler. “Shawnee Community College is an excellent example of rich educational resources in Illinois that help students of all ages explore new worlds and exciting career possibilities.”
“This is about access and opportunity,” said State Representative Katz Muhl. “Seventy-eight percent of community college students work while in school, making relocation impractical. By allowing community colleges to offer bachelor’s degrees, we’re giving more Illinoisans a real chance at upward mobility while strengthening the local workforce.”
SCC’s Commitment to Strong University Partnerships
While SCC welcomes the opportunity to offer baccalaureate degrees, this initiative is designed to serve a distinctly different student population than our local universities. SCC focuses on place-bound, working adults who need flexible, career-driven degree pathways to meet workforce demands. Dr. Taylor added,
“SCC remains fully committed to supporting traditional transfer students transitioning to four-year universities. Further, the College will continue to strengthen articulation agreements and develop clearly defined pathways, ensuring students who choose to transfer have seamless access to their university of choice with a strong academic foundation for success.”
Making Higher Education More Accessible
A recent survey of Illinois community college students found that:
- 75% would pursue a bachelor’s degree if they could complete it at their community college.
- Students cite cost, flexibility, and balancing work and school as key factors in their decision-making.
Learn More
To read more about the proposed Community College Baccalaureate legislation, view the joint release by the Illinois Community College Board, Illinois Community College Trustees Association, and the Illinois Council of Community College Presidents.
For specific questions, please contact Shawnee Community College Executive Director of Public Information and Marketing Kevin Hunsperger at (618) 634-3270.