Bachelor’s at Illinois community colleges may widen access,
affordability
[April 20, 2026]
By Sean Reed | The Center Square
(The Center Square) – Community colleges in Illinois could soon offer
Bachelor’s degree programs to Illinois residents. Officials, lawmakers
and students all say the initiative would make higher education more
accessible, affordable and benefit the state’s economy.
House Bill 5319 would allow all community colleges to provide four-year
baccalaureate degree programs, with specific programs offered to be
determined by collaborative efforts between the Illinois Community
College Board (ICCB) and the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE).
The ICCB released a report detailing the economic impact of the 45
institutions across the state, with data showing the state sees a 130%
return on tax funds spent on community colleges.
ICCB Executive Director Brian Durham said the schools serve as a
backbone to communities across the state.
“They drive workforce development, support local businesses and create
pathways that strengthen families and entire regions. Every dollar
invested returns value through higher earnings, stronger employment and
more resilient communities,” Durham said.
He said the proposal could bolster the economy and expand opportunities
for people across the state who may not otherwise be able to attend a
university.
Michael Deno is a student studying social work at Shawnee Community
College in Southern Illinois. He is also the founder of The House of
Care Ministries – a non-profit community organization he started to help
people in need.
“I’m a person with disabilities. I'm a person who also once struggled
with a mental health crisis and addiction. Four years ago, when I found
Shawnee Community College, I wouldn't have been in this building with
all of you,” Deno said. “Thanks to the support of my community college,
I'm here today.”
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He said he wouldn’t have been able to start the organization if not
for his community college, which has made it easier for him to earn
an education while also working and running a nonprofit.
He said the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree right in his
community would mean a lot for his work, education and future
prospects.
“I have a very colorful past. So what a bachelor program would do
for me at the community college level would enable me to stay there
where I'm supported. It would enable me to afford it, because I'm
really looking down the university cost like ‘I run a non-profit. I
don't make money,’” Deno said.
President of Harper College Dr. Avis Proctor spoke further on the
economic impacts of the schools.
“The study shows that the average associate degree graduate earns
$8,400 more annually than a high school graduate. Imagine what the
impact would be if we allowed students to earn a bachelor's degree,”
Proctor said.
State Rep. Tracy Katz Muhl, D-Northbrook, reflected other’s comments
on the impacts her bill could have.
“Illinois cannot meet its workforce and economic goals without the
community colleges, and we cannot fully unlock that potential unless
we modernize what they are able to offer,” Katz Muhl said.
The bill is co-sponsored by many Democrat representatives, and over
a dozen members of the House GOP. Further action by the legislature
is likely, but uncertain.
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