Board reviews two Tacoma baccalaureate proposals: RN‑to‑BSN and computer science BS

Ken Hanks, policy associate for baccalaureate programs, told the board the state now has 34 community colleges offering baccalaureate programs and that 165 programs are active. He said 5,308 FTE were enrolled in upper‑division baccalaureate courses in fall 2025 and that there were 1,876 bachelor's degree graduates systemwide in academic year 2024–25.

Two Tacoma Community College proposals were previewed for the consent agenda: a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN‑to‑BSN) and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

Val Sandeep (Tacoma) described the proposed RN‑to‑BSN as a hybrid, flexible program that uses mission‑aligned admissions to expand access while prioritizing students who progressed through the college's ADN program. The college intends to grant credit for licensure where appropriate and to align admissions with American Association of Colleges of Nursing holistic guidance.

Ken Hanks described the proposed BS in Computer Science as building on a strong associate program and pairing foundational coursework (data structures, algorithms) with contemporary topics (cloud computing, information security, artificial intelligence) plus experiential learning and student supports such as the MESA program. Board members asked how curricula and advising will adapt to rapid changes in AI and labor market needs; presenters said colleges are updating curriculum and expanding experiential partnerships with industry mentors.

The board did not take immediate action; both proposals were scheduled for the consent agenda at the next meeting.