Collin College is now closer to being able to offer at least three bachelor’s degrees.

Senate Bill 2118, which would allow Texas community colleges to offer bachelor’s degrees, received approval from both the Texas House and Senate on May 28.

If Governor Greg Abbott approves, the bill will become law and will allow Collin College to offer not only a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree but also a bachelor of applied technology degree and a bachelor of applied science degree.

In a news release, Collin College District President Neil Matkin gave thanks to the Senate and House representatives who were in support of the bill.

“Their support will allow us to serve the community in a much-needed, expanded capacity,” Matkin said. “To achieve this new endeavor, we will listen to our community, as we did with our master plan and proactively respond to the Collin County workforce needs.”

Bob Collins, founding trustee and chair of the Collin College board of trustees, said there is a nursing shortage in Texas specifically in Collin County. Offering a bachelor's degree in nursing at the college would help tremendously, he said.

“Texas is projected to have a shortage of close to 60,000 nurses by 2030,” Collins said in a statement. “Collin College is well equipped to become an integral part of the solution with state-of-the art facilities and an outstanding faculty Offering baccalaureate degrees aligns with our mission and vision to deliver a brighter future for our students and communities.”