(a) The coordinating board shall authorize baccalaureate degree programs in the fields of applied science, applied technology, and nursing at each public junior college that previously participated in a pilot project to offer baccalaureate degree programs.
(b) The coordinating board may authorize baccalaureate degree programs at one or more public junior colleges that offer a degree program in the field of applied science, including a degree program in the field of applied science with an emphasis in early childhood education, applied technology, or nursing and have demonstrated a workforce need.