Course Numbering and Transfer and Curricula (5500XD) - Education, Department of

This bill establishes a statewide common course numbering system for Iowa community colleges to improve transfer consistency, requiring standardized course codes, equivalent course identification, and use across all catalogs and transcripts by 2027. It mandates that all Iowa community colleges replace traditional remedial math and English courses with a corequisite model (supporting students in credit-bearing courses) by the 2028-2029 academic year. Additionally, it requires K-12 students to complete sequential coursework in multiple career and technical education (CTE) content areas (like health sciences, business, or manufacturing) to prepare for high-demand, high-skill, and high-wage occupations. The bill directly affects Iowa community colleges, K-12 schools, and students by standardizing transfer pathways and aligning CTE programs with workforce needs.