Applied Baccalaureate Program Approval Process

Oregon students can now earn a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in an applied  baccalaureate (AB) program at Oregon community colleges that have completed the AB program approval process. Legislation passed in 2019 allows community colleges to seek Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) approval for applied baccalaureate programs. The information here provides background on these degree programs and details on the HECC’s approval process.

AB degrees are bachelor-level, workforce-oriented programs that prepare Oregonians for high-value careers with Oregon employers and industries.

AB programs provide advanced technical knowledge, strengthen analytical skills, enhance communication skills, and broaden students’ awareness of interdisciplinary topics. They contain technical or applied courses, and further an Associate of Applied Science or Associate of Science Degree pathway. An AB includes lower division courses and upper division baccalaureate-level courses. 

These programs are just beginning to be offered at some institutions. Prospective students interested in these programs should check their local community college’s website to see if they are available.

Stay Engaged on Program Approval

New programs are proposed to the Commission for review and approval. This is done at regular public meetings of the Commission.

See the HECC upcoming public meeting materials and past meeting materials for information on commission agendas and minutes. Recent program approvals are also announced in HECC newsletters on a regular basis.

Community College Resources: Program Approval Process

Consult the Oregon Community College Policy and Process Book to learn more about the Applied Baccalaureate Policy and Process Flow.