LANSING – State Representatives Joel Sheltrown (D-West Branch) and John Walsh (R-Livonia) have introduced a package of bills that would allow Michigan's 28 community colleges to offer four-year degrees for nursing and other high-demand careers. The bill would provide greater access and affordability to higher education.
"Unfortunately, long commutes and lack of money prohibit many of our students from getting the education they need to land good-paying jobs in growing fields," Sheltrown said. "Students shouldn't have to uproot their families or quit their jobs just to earn a four-year degree if there is a chance of obtaining that goal in their own backyard and for less money at a community college."
Sheltrown worked closely with Representative Walsh to draft the bipartisan legislation that will allow a community college to establish programs and grant bachelor's degrees for in-demand careers such as nursing, the culinary arts and cement and maritime technologies. The package is being considered by the House Education Committee chaired by Representative Tim Melton (D-Pontiac).
The plan could more than double the total number of schools that offer a four-year degree in nursing, according to numbers from the State Board of Nursing.
"With the nursing shortage in Michigan expected to worsen, we need to increase the opportunities for more students to earn degrees in this field," Sheltrown said. "Not only will these bills provide the opportunity for better jobs in a state that is literally begging for them, but it will take some of the burden off of Michigan students striving for a better education."