In the less populated regions of the United States, a significant gap exists between the educational qualifications of the workforce and the job market demands. Approximately 36% of jobs that offer a sustainable living wage require at least a bachelor’s degree, yet only 25% of individuals in these rural areas possess such qualifications. The absence of nearby universities or four-year colleges often leads students to begin their higher education journey at community colleges. With nearly 1,000 community colleges across the nation, over a quarter are situated in rural locales, with many others serving these communities.
The journey to obtaining a bachelor’s degree for students in rural settings is often more complex compared to their urban counterparts, who have easier access to four-year institutions. Rural community college students typically have four main pathways to achieve their bachelor’s degree. While the first three traditional routes may not always be effective, a fourth option—the community college bachelor’s degree program—is gaining traction. This innovative approach has shown promise in helping students who are tied to their local areas earn their degrees and secure meaningful employment.
Path 1: Transitioning to a Four-Year Institution
The initial pathway involves transferring to a four-year university, where students may either live on campus or commute from their homes. For instance, Laramie County Community College has established partnerships with the University of Wyoming to create guaranteed transfer pathways into key bachelor’s programs. However, this option is often limited to a small percentage of students, primarily younger individuals with family financial support. Many community college attendees juggle jobs and family responsibilities, making it challenging to relocate or commute long distances, especially in regions where travel can be hindered by weather conditions.
For those living in more remote areas, the prospect of commuting to a university can be unrealistic, further complicating their educational aspirations.
Path 2: Earning a Degree Online
Online education is often touted as a viable solution for rural students, yet many face significant barriers. Numerous rural areas lack reliable internet access, creating what is known as a “digital desert.” Even when connectivity is available, many students struggle to complete online programs successfully. Research indicates that only a quarter of community college students who transfer to online universities complete their degrees within four years, compared to a much higher completion rate for those who transition to traditional four-year institutions.
Moreover, online learning can be particularly challenging for low-income students and those from underserved backgrounds, who may also contend with issues like limited transportation and childcare.
Path 3: Attending a Community College-Based University Center
The third option allows students to pursue upper-division coursework through a university center located on a community college campus. While this model aims to provide greater access to higher education, it often faces operational challenges. Issues related to governance and funding can hinder the sustainability of these programs, especially in rural areas where student enrollment may not justify the investment from the partnering university.
A Fourth Path: Community College Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The most promising option for rural students may be community college bachelor’s degree programs. These initiatives have been shown to effectively cater to older, working students who are unable to relocate. Research supports the notion that these programs not only facilitate access to bachelor’s degrees but also help graduates secure well-paying jobs.
Critics argue that offering bachelor’s degrees at community colleges may overlap with traditional university offerings. However, these degrees are typically tailored to meet specific regional workforce needs and are developed in collaboration with local employers. This ensures that the curriculum is relevant and directly applicable to the job market.
Additionally, community college bachelor’s programs often build upon the applied associate degrees that many students already possess, allowing for a smoother transition to higher-level qualifications. They are designed to be accessible, enabling students to advance their careers without having to leave their communities.
For example, Laramie County Community College offers a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, featuring accelerated courses that accommodate working professionals. This program was developed in partnership with healthcare employers to address the demand for skilled management professionals in the field, providing a pathway for those already in the workforce to enhance their qualifications without the need to relocate.
While the number of bachelor’s degrees awarded by community colleges remains relatively small, with fewer than 17,000 conferred annually compared to over 1.3 million by public universities, there is a growing recognition among policymakers of the vital role these institutions play in meeting the educational needs of rural students. Currently, community colleges in 24 states are authorized to offer bachelor’s degrees in specific fields, with significant potential for expansion. This model represents a shift towards rethinking higher education for place-bound students who require flexibility to balance work and family commitments while pursuing their academic goals.