Los Angeles Trade Technical College, photo via Creative Commons

Recently, the California community college system has begun to consider the possibility of offering four-year baccalaureate degrees in addition to standard two-year degrees and certifications.

This measure is significant because it could allow students to attain bachelor's degrees without sacrificing the affordability and accessibility of community college.

Opponents to the idea argue that the California community college system is simply not equipped with the appropriate funding, facilities and faculty to offer these degrees. Others worry that there may be overlap between community colleges and universities, which could prove damaging for both parties.

A panel appointed by the community colleges Chancellor is expected to reach a decision within the next year. Students from Los Angeles Trade Technical College share what they think of the idea below. 

Gerald. Photo by Avery Regen

Gerald

"A lot of the students are using this primarily as a stepping stone to get to the higher universities. I myself, when I was your age, my thing was if I couldn’t get into USC, I would do what I had to do in order to get there. If I had to go to a community college to get to a university that’s what I would do. If they had a four year degree here, and it’s in my best interest, then I would get that here, and then go to a higher university to get my graduate degree."

Shontiera. Photo by Avery Regen

Shontiera

"I have a study plan to transfer to transfer to Cal State Los Angeles. I don’t think I would stay, even if they did [offer a four-year degree at L.A. Trade Tech]. Because I came from Northridge... I kind of see, you know, the expectations, at a university and at community college, and I feel like... I’m ready for university level, but I made a couple of mistakes and that's how I ended up here. But I feel like I want to go back to where I was. I want to get my B.A. in sociology and then I want to go back and get my master’s. So after Northridge or another university, I want to go to UCLA or USC to get my masters degree and further my education as much as possible, because the more degrees the better."

Jovan. Photo by Avery Regen.

Jovan

"Well this is a community college basically, so it would be better if I could transfer to a four-year college instead. Eventually I want a masters degree. A master’s degree is the best. It’s the best you can do. It’s sitting down and putting yourself into that world and saying you want to better yourself and be successful in life and in my career. Maybe I’ll be able to own my own business one day. Knowledge is power."

Contact Staff Reporter Avery Regen here.