Governor Stitt Applauds Progress on Three-Year Degree Pathways Following State Regents’ Action

OKLAHOMA CITY (June 3, 2026) - Governor Kevin Stitt today applauded recent action by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to create a framework for accelerated bachelor’s degree programs at Oklahoma’s public colleges and universities. The effort builds on legislation and executive orders he issued earlier this year to advance three-year, 90 credit hour degree pathways

“This legislation is about making Oklahoma more competitive and helping our kids get from the classroom to a good paying job with less debt,” said Governor Stitt. “A three-year degree speeds up workforce entry and makes so much sense for students who are ready to work and support a family, right here in Oklahoma.”

HB 3315 builds on Executive Order 2026 07, which launched a 90 day study of 90 credit hour “accelerated” bachelor’s degrees and their impact on Oklahoma’s workforce.

The feasibility study, presented to the State Regents at their March 26 meeting, looked at accreditation rules, workforce needs, costs to students, transfer issues, and other key factors. It found that accelerated bachelor’s degrees could work in Oklahoma’s public colleges and universities if they are limited to certain workforce focused fields and include strong safeguards, clear approval processes, good advising, and careful attention to transfer and licensure.

“Oklahoma’s economy is growing, and employers need job-ready graduates,” the Governor said. “If we can streamline degree pathways while preserving quality and accreditation, we should do it. This is another step toward making Oklahoma a Top Ten state for opportunity, business, and education.”

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