In 2014, Senator Marty Block introduced SB 850, calling for the creation a pilot program of baccalaureate degrees around the state. Senator Block noted at the time that baccalaureate programs existed in community colleges in 21 states, and that California would face a shortfall of educated professionals in fields including health, biotechnology, and other needed fields. Despite the ASCCC’s opposition to the expansion of the system’s mission, the bill passed and was signed into law. Once this occurred, the ASCCC worked to assist colleges who were chosen to participate in the Baccalaureate Degree Pilot, providing guidance in areas such as general education, minimum qualifications, and expectations around accreditation.
