A group of 22 incarcerated women at the California Institution for Women have recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies from California State University, Los Angeles. These graduates are the first women to earn a college degree through the ongoing partnership between the California Department of Corrections (CDCR) and the university.
Students at the California Institution for Women earned their degrees by completing up to four courses per semester over the course of two years. During their studies, they received individual career counseling. In addition to their bachelor’s degrees, the students were equipped with their own LinkedIn profile and career portfolio to prepare them for successful careers when they return to their communities.
“Today’s milestone reflects the power of education to transform lives,” said Jeff Macomber, CDCR secretary. “These graduates have demonstrated a true commitment to building a better future. By expanding access to higher education inside our institutions, we are not only opening doors for personal growth but also strengthening pathways for safer, healthier communities across California. I congratulate each graduate and extend my gratitude to all who supported them along the way.”
Since 2016, the partnership between CDCR and the university has served some 120 incarcerated students. During the current 2025-2026 school year, 180 students across California State Prison, Los Angeles; the California Institution for Women; and the California Institution for Men will take college-level courses through the program.