This study examined the nature and degree of organizational change that occurs when community colleges offer their own baccalaureate degree programs. Utilizing qualitative research methodology, we investigated how executive administrators at two Florida colleges managed this momentous change process and how this transformation has affected their colleges’ day-to-day operations. Our findings shed light on several important themes that emerged in interviews with the administrators: justifying the need for the degree, acquiring state approval and regional accreditation, modifying existing college policies and services, meeting challenges that are inherent in this transition, and developing strategies for leading this institutional transformation. Our goal was to provide a better understanding of this multifaceted organizational change process to help community college stakeholders make educated decisions regarding the introduction of 4-year degree programs at their institutions.
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