BAS and BSN Degrees

Bachelor of Applied Science and Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degrees

During the 2014 legislative session, the Colorado General Assembly determined that it is a priority in Colorado to afford citizens across the state greater access to higher education by allowing the community colleges to offer four-year bachelor of applied science (BAS) degrees.  During the 2018 legislative session, and in response to a statewide shortage of nursing professionals with Bachelors degrees, the Colorado General Assembly passed HB 18-1086 allowing CCCS Community Colleges to offer a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

BAS degrees continue to be of increasing importance in enabling individuals to qualify for and obtain jobs in specialized fields throughout Colorado. Offering BAS and BSN degrees has allowed the community colleges to provide an opportunity for underserved and first generation students to continue their educational pathway in a familiar community college setting, thus making it more likely these students will persist and complete their degrees while furthering statewide goals toward closing the attainment gap for historically underserved populations. CCCS colleges offer Bachelor’s degrees in a growing number of specific disciplines designed to enhance graduates’ employment opportunities.

Visit the Program Approval page for information on the BAS and BSN program approval processes.