ABSTRACT
Over the past two decades, the number of community colleges independently offering baccalaureate degree programs has steadily risen. This chapter focuses on a specific phenomenon that has arisen largely in response to increased demands for baccalaureate degrees in particular geographic areas and fields of study—often rural locations and high-demand fields, such as education, nursing, and technical subjects. It presents recent trends in the community college baccalaureate, describes variations among the states and pending issues, summarizes arguments for and against the community college baccalaureate, and presents implications for policy makers considering this option. Supporters argue that baccalaureate programs offered by community colleges increase educational opportunities for place-bound, adult workers, particularly in rural areas where there is no access to four-year institutions. Community colleges traditionally work with local employers and develop degree and certificate programs that respond to specified workforce needs.
