Academic Priorities Committee Meeting
March 20, 2003
Joe reviewed graduate enrollment patterns data and observed that it doesn’t appear that graduate programs are growing, unless new degrees are added. Ron suggested looking at credits by program.
Ron presented a paper he felt might be helpful entitled, “The Relative Contribution of Department Ranking to College Ranking in Engineering Graduate Program Rankings Conducted by U.S. News and World Report.” Copies will be sent to the committee. (Done, March 21)
Don LaMagdeleine commented on his revised white paper pointing out that it provides support for UST to continue doing what it’s doing but ratcheting up the programs we do well, until it is necessary to add graduate or other professional degrees. The offerings of the 14 peer schools make it look like UST has gone in the right direction. He also commented briefly on his four recommendations on page 15 saying the paper may be a useful guide in determining what direction the institution will go. The paper may help define who we are and who we are not. It suggests downplaying the term “graduate education.”
In the follow-up discussion, Joe proposed looking at liberal arts programs that can be linked into larger programs, or develop one-of-a-kind programs not offered elsewhere, using our resources as well as any available in the community. An example might be using the graduate program in English, theater and music programs to offer a two-year masters program for playwrights. Don pointed out that professional schools bring status but not income.
Joe feels the administration will endorse the concepts of the white paper, since it can be helpful in articulating how UST sees itself. Don will make final corrections, draft a cover letter and seek feedback from faculty affairs, faculty development, deans and directors and other relevant bodies.
The committee also looked at the Academic Priority Criteria and Resolution Process DRAFT produced by Janice Raffield and Mick Sheppeck noting that it grouped Dickeson’s criteria into three main areas.
Ron and Joe offered worksheets they designed based on Dickeson’s criteria. Ron added two additional criteria to his: alignment with mission and alternative programs in the region. Joe forwarded Ron’s worksheet to the committee, asking that they assign their own measures to each category and return them to Joe no later than April 2. He will compile them for the April 3 meeting. (Refer to Dickeson, beginning on page 59.)
Board
of Trustees Meeting (new date)
Joe announced the date of the May board of trustees meeting has been moved to Wednesday, May 14. APC committee members should be at 102 O’Shaughnessy Library by 2:45 p.m. to present to the board.
The members present decided the presentation to the board would consist of Don’s white paper and the criteria with weights.
2:30 p.m., Thursday, April 3. 154 MHCC.