Meeting Oregon SB 233 and ORS 350.423 CCN Requirements with CourseLeaf Commons
Oregon Senate Bill 233 (2021), codified in ORS 350.423, requires Oregon’s public colleges and universities to adopt a common course numbering (CCN) system for introductory and lower-division courses that share comparable learning outcomes. The legislation is designed to improve transfer, reduce credit loss, and create greater clarity for students navigating multiple institutions.
For registrars, faculty leaders, and curriculum committees, this law introduces a significant challenge: aligning course numbering across all Oregon public institutions, while maintaining compliance, transparency, and academic integrity.
What SB 233 and ORS 350.423 Require
Under the statute, Oregon’s Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) must:
- Establish a statewide common course numbering system for lower-division general education and commonly transferred courses.
- Ensure that courses with comparable content have identical subject codes, numbers, credits, and learning outcomes across all institutions.
- Implement the framework and compliance rules no later than September 1, 2024.
This alignment effort requires collaboration across institutions, departments, and faculty to ensure consistency and accuracy.
How CourseLeaf Commons Can Help
CourseLeaf Commons is built for collaboration, giving Oregon institutions the tools they need to meet SB 233 requirements efficiently and effectively.
- Cross-Institution Collaboration – Work with peers across the state to align courses, compare learning outcomes, and establish common numbering.
- Shared Resources – Access examples, templates, and workflows from other institutions implementing CCN.
- Transparency and Documentation – Track curriculum changes and maintain records to demonstrate compliance.
- Community Insight – Connect with a network of CourseLeaf users nationwide who are navigating similar state-mandated numbering initiatives.
With Commons, Oregon institutions can reduce duplication of effort and accelerate their path to compliance with SB 233.
Why Registrars and Academic Leaders Should Care
Registrars, provosts, and curriculum leaders will be on the front lines of SB 233 implementation. CourseLeaf Commons provides the structure to:
- Simplify course alignment across multiple campuses.
- Ensure compliance while reducing administrative burden.
- Strengthen governance and cross-department communication.
- Support a transparent, student-focused curriculum that makes transfer easier.
Take the Next Step
Oregon’s SB 233 and ORS 350.423 are reshaping the landscape of curriculum alignment and transfer. With CourseLeaf Commons, your institution can collaborate, comply, and create a stronger path to student success.
See how CourseLeaf Commons can help your institution meet Oregon’s CCN requirements and deliver on the promise of transferability.