The recent report published by the University of California (UCLA) highlights the importance of bachelor's degree programs offered by community colleges in reducing the educational gap for Latino students. Since 2014, some community colleges in California have been offering two-year bachelor's degree programs, and for Latinos who complete these programs, it can have a significant impact on their lives, both in terms of educational attainment and financial stability.

The study, conducted by the UCLA Latino Policy & Politics Institute, examined data from the first five cohorts of California's community baccalaureate programs and interviewed graduates to assess graduate outcomes. It found that about 64% of Latino students who enrolled in these programs graduated within two years, a rate similar to that of non-Latino students. In addition, fewer Latino graduates had to resort to student loans to finance their studies, 35 percent, compared to 46 percent, compared to all California college graduates.

Latino graduates of these programs have also experienced significant financial improvements, with average annual earnings increase after graduation and higher employment rates compared to non-Latinos. In addition, the programs cater to local industrial and labor needs, with a focus on areas such as dental hygiene, respiratory care, and automotive technology.

According to a report by NBCNews, “The ability to earn a bachelor's degree in two years is especially significant considering the number of Latinos attending community college: In California, about 640,000 Latino students were enrolled in community colleges in fall 2022 — more than twice the number who were enrolled in the California State University and the University of California systems combined (about 285,000 students), according to the report”.

However, despite the potential benefits, community college bachelor's degree programs still face significant affordability challenges. Although California has 31 approved programs, there are still gaps in Latino enrollment, with only about 30 percent of students enrolled in the first cohorts being Latino, even though Latinos made up 46 percent of the total student population at these community colleges.

The report highlights the promise of these programs, but also emphasizes the need to overcome barriers to access to ensure that more Latino students can benefit from these higher education opportunities in their communities.