Newsom Signs Laws Letting California Community Colleges Add Up To 12 Bachelor’s Degrees

Newsom Signs Laws Letting California Community Colleges Add Up To 12 Bachelor’s Degrees

Author: The College Investor September 24, 2026 Duration: 8:03

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 960 and Assembly Bill 2694 on September 18, 2026, rewriting the rules for bachelor’s degrees at California community colleges. Starting January 1, 2028, each district’s allowance of new bachelor’s programs will range from 2 to 12, and the number depends on how many of its students finish or transfer.

The two measures, by Sen. Christopher Cabaldon (D-Napa) and Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego), are legally joined: SB 960 states it takes effect only if AB 2694 is also enacted. Newsom’s office listed both as signed in its September 18 legislative update.

They replace the framework set by AB 927 in 2021, which allowed up to 30 new programs statewide per year and barred any duplication of Cal State or UC degrees.

For families weighing what college costs in California, the change means more four-year credentials priced at community college rates.


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