SS SCS SB 98 -- STATE INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION

This bill changes the name of Southwest Missouri State University
to Missouri State University; drops "Joplin" from the name of
Missouri Southern State University-Joplin; and renames Missouri
Western State College and Harris-Stowe State College as
universities.  Central Missouri State University is permitted to
change its name to University of Central Missouri upon the
approval of its governing board if it acts before August 28,
2007.

Missouri State University is prohibited from seeking land grant
status or a research designation.  The name change does not
entitle the university to additional state funding.  Cooperative
programs in engineering and doctoral programs may be offered in
conjunction with the University of Missouri, with the University
of Missouri designated as the degree-granting institution.  If
the University of Missouri declines to cooperate within a year of
program approval, Missouri State University may cooperate with
another institution or offer the degree directly.  Missouri State
University will not offer professional programs offered by the
University of Missouri but may offer doctorates in audiology and
physical therapy.  The Coordinating Board for Higher Education
retains the right of degree program approval.

In regard to Missouri Western State University, the bill:

(1)  Places into law its mission as a statewide institution of
applied learning;

(2)  Changes its service area to Buchanan County and counties
contiguous to Buchanan County and aligns the selection of its
governing board members with the revised area; and

(3)  Requires discontinuing its associate degree programs by July
1, 2010, unless the Coordinating Board for Higher Education
approves their continuance.

The governing board of Missouri State University is increased
from seven to nine voting members, and the board of Missouri
Southern State University is increased from seven to eight voting
members.

Missouri House of Representatives
93rd General Assembly, 1st Regular Session
Last Updated August 25, 2005 at 1:21 pm