NJ A1438

Four-year institutions of higher education in New Jersey may establish programs to award associate degrees to students who have earned 60 or more academic credits at the institution, in consultation with the Secretary of Higher Education and the New Jersey Presidents' Council

Transfer students may receive an associate degree if they have earned 60 academic credits total, with at least 30 credits completed at the four-year institution

Participating institutions must provide academic advising identifying required courses for an associate degree, notify students of eligibility upon completing 60 credits, and inform withdrawing students of their potential to earn an associate degree

Associate degree programs must meet Middle States Commission on Higher Education accreditation standards and align with the institution's mission, faculty, and resources

The Secretary of Higher Education must submit annual reports to the Governor and Legislature on the number of associate degrees conferred by four-year institutions