HB 5786

Abstract

Creates the Student Transfer Achievement Reform Act. Provides that, commencing with the fall term of the 2014-2015 academic year, a community college student who enrolls in and subsequently earns an associate degree for transfer granted pursuant to the Act is deemed eligible for transfer into the baccalaureate program of a State university and must be considered to have fulfilled all lower division coursework in the major field of study. Requires each community college district to ensure that associate degrees for transfer adhere to the degree models under rules of the Illinois Community College Board, which shall include specific lower division courses in the major field of study that are comparable to the lower division courses in the major field of study at State universities, as agreed to by the Board of Higher Education and the Illinois Community College Board. Requires a State university to guarantee junior status to any community college student who is admitted under the provisions of the Act. Sets forth provisions concerning coursework, reviews and reports by the Board of Higher Education, and implementation of the Act. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement.