TRI-CITIES– A draft plan to expand current degree programs at Washington State University Tri-Cities down to the freshman level is available for public review and comment. This plan will be sent to the Higher Education Coordinating Board by the end of November.
“This plan details our approach toward incorporating freshmen into the academic programs at our campus,” said Tri-Cities Chancellor Vicky Carwein.
“I look forward to hearing from alumni, community leaders, and students about how the draft plan matches their expectations for campus growth.”
To review the plan, visit www.tricity.wsu.edu, click on “4 Year Plan” at the bottom of the page or call (509)372-7264. Comments are accepted via e-mail or fax until 5 p.m. Nov. 6.
The Washington Legislature passed Substitute House Bill 2867 during its 2006 session, which recognizes community support for Washington State University and states “The legislature finds that the Tri-Cities community is very engaged in and committed to exploring the further expansion of Washington State University branch campus into a four-year institution and considers this issue to be a top priority for the larger Tri-Cities region.”
The bill directs WSU Tri-Cities to examine all resources available in the region and to develop a plan regarding areas of need in higher education that exist in southeastern Washington and how WSU Tri-Cities may best develop into a four-year institution.
In addition, beginning in the fall of 2007, WSU Tri-Cities may admit lower-division students, subject to approval by the state’s Higher Education Coordinating Board, directly into high-need programs beyond the biotechnology field.
