CT HB05435

The Legislative Program Review and Investigations Committee shall evaluate certificate programs offered by regional community-technical colleges, the Connecticut State University System, Charter Oak State College, and private occupational schools, effective July 1, 2014.

The evaluation must inventory certificate programs and include data on program types, student costs, academic credit awards, program length, completion rates, enrollment patterns, industry certifications, employment placement rates, related employment rates, and average graduate income.

The evaluation must examine certificate program development and renewal processes, potential student supply, job market demand, barriers to enrollment and completion, Connecticut's completion rates compared to other states, and best practices for program development and operation.

The Legislative Program Review and Investigations Committee shall report findings and recommendations to the joint standing committee on higher education and employment advancement no later than January 15, 2015.