By NICK BUDD
Hays Post
The Kansas Board of Regents are set to receive a recommendation on a proposed merger between Fort Hays State University-Dodge City Community College during its meeting in Topeka over the next two days.
According to the proposal, the merge will establish an upper division college and an Institute of Applied Technology on the Dodge City campus. The lower-division college, which offers several one- and two-year degree programs, would remain on the campus. All of the colleges will be operated by FHSU, if Regents approve the plan.
The new institute of applied technology will use a corporate partnership model. According the the proposal, the institute will “combine innovative technologies with innovative cooperative educational experiences for students ultimately creating a more educated workforce that better suits the needs of employers and creates a mechanism for these students to more easily move into high paying jobs they are qualified for.”
The corporate sponsor model ideally features a corporate sponsor that would help formulate a specific program to fit industry needs. The classroom would ideally become a mix of a traditional learning environment and a hands on-lab.
DCCC currently offers one- and two-year programs in automobile mechanics technology, building construction technology, business technology, diesel engine mechanic repair, electrical and power transmission, electrical transmission system technology, and welding. The new Institute of Applied Technology would “provide the sequence of these programs of study and others developed by the needs of the corporate partners to complete certificates and degrees in the field of technology studies.” The institute also would begin providing a specialized bachelor’s of technology leadership degree in some programs.
The responsibilities of FHSU include employing and supervision of staff members, oversight of the finances and all activities and functions, and the recommendation of tuition rates to Regents.
The DCCC Board of Trustee’s responsibilities include physical structures and management of taxing authority.