Outline:
A Focus on Expansion and Affordability
DES MOINES, Iowa – As Iowa’s community college system prepares to mark its 60th anniversary of serving students, leaders are looking ahead to potential changes that could enhance the educational opportunities available to residents. The system is set to work closely with the Iowa Legislature to explore new degree programs and curriculum updates.
Emily Shields, Executive Director of Community Colleges for Iowa, emphasizes the importance of community colleges as a valuable resource. She agrees with lawmakers who describe them as “one of Iowa’s best kept secrets.” Shields hopes for increased funding and support to make education more accessible and affordable for high school students, college-age individuals, and adult learners.
Rep. Taylor Collins, chair of the Iowa House Higher Education Committee, and Sen. Lynn Evans, chair of the Iowa Senate Education Committee, have both indicated that community colleges will be a major focus during the upcoming legislative session. Evans refers to community colleges as one of Iowa’s “hidden gems” that need better promotion.
The statewide community college system was established 60 years ago this year and has since been considered a national model. Shields notes that while community college staff are humble, they often do not highlight their achievements. She finds it encouraging when legislators recognize the value of these institutions.
New Degrees and Curriculum Changes
Community colleges are seeking a $12 million increase in state funding for the next fiscal year, according to Shields. This increase aims to address rising costs and maintain competitive pay and benefits. Similar to the previous year’s funding formula, which was developed by college presidents to ensure equitable per-student funding, this additional money would further support the system’s financial stability.
Some of the funds would also go toward implementing bachelor’s degree programs at community colleges, provided the Legislature supports such an initiative. A report released by Community Colleges for Iowa in October 2025 explored how other states have incorporated baccalaureate degrees into their academic offerings and what steps Iowa would need to take to follow suit.
Collins has emphasized the importance of new community college degree programs, but Shields notes that the usual state funding request may not cover all the costs. In addition to general state aid, the organization plans to request a $20 million fund specifically for the creation of baccalaureate degrees at community colleges. This funding would help cover initial costs such as hiring faculty, training, and equipment before tuition revenue begins.
Shields explains that introducing new degrees would build upon the system’s existing mission, which focuses on workforce development, credentials, and addressing local needs. With 15 community colleges operating across more than 100 locations in Iowa, the system offers a more affordable alternative to public and private universities.
Addressing Challenges and Opportunities
Another priority for Collins involves revising core curriculum requirements at public universities, which could impact community colleges as well. Shields points out that about half of community college students transfer to four-year institutions. Any curriculum changes would need to ensure a smooth and seamless transfer process.
Community colleges are also hoping to revise the Last-Dollar Scholarship Program, which has seen limited use due to income caps and restricted job fields. The program provides eligible students with funding to cover gaps between their financial aid and tuition costs. However, recent changes have eliminated eligibility for careers in law enforcement, medical and dental assisting, and wastewater management.
Shields says the program has been underutilized in recent years and that the new restrictions could further limit access for students. She advocates for legislative changes to expand the program and ensure that funds reach those who need them most.
Proposed Legislation and Future Goals
A bill has already been introduced ahead of the legislative session, aiming to improve career academy courses, articulation agreements between community colleges and state universities, and programs supporting high school students in earning concurrent education credits.
The proposed legislation would require career academies to offer at least two units of secondary education, including one that meets the requirements for a district-to-community college sharing or concurrent enrollment program. It would also mandate that the statewide articulation agreement allow for the transfer of career and technical education credits alongside academic credits.
Current law requires the Iowa Department of Education to create a fund to help high school students attend summer career and technical education classes if the Legislature appropriates funds for the initiative. The bill would require this fund to be created regardless of whether money is allocated to it.
While a $600,000 fund exists for summer career and technical education, Shields notes that demand has far exceeded available resources. She believes increasing funding could better meet student needs.
The bill would also require school districts to discuss college credit and industry-recognized credential opportunities with eighth-grade students as part of their personalized academic and career plans. Shields highlights that discussions around credit transfers and dedicated funding for high school students have been ongoing for several years as concurrent enrollment continues to grow.
“We’re excited anytime transfer is made easier for our students, because we want them to transfer if that’s what’s in their plans,” Shields said. “It is especially challenging for career and technical education students.”