April 6, 2004

April 6, 2004

MINUTES OF ACADEMIC COUNCIL

Approved
9/7/2004

Present:  Bertrand, Buis, Cron, Curtis, Ferguson, Hinkle, Janzow, Jones, McDougall, McGowan, Shaw, Shepard, Stephens, Syler, and Tibbs
 
Guests:   Jedan

1. Minutes of March 2, 2004.  Jones asked that the minutes on C-2 be changed to reflect that it was the census of the Council that Double Major and Second Degree be put on the next agenda as action items.  McGowan also noted that the minutes reflected that the Council would vote on the Report on Options, Areas of Emphasis and this was not on today’s agenda.  Corrections will be made and brought back to the Council for approval at next meeting.  Since the Report on Options was not on today’s agenda, it will be included on the agenda in May.
   
2. Action Items:
   
1. 120-Hour Target.  Stephens asked if more discussion was needed regarding the 120-Hour target or were we ready for action.  McGowan moved to approve the following:  “The minimum number of degree credit hours for a Bachelor’s degree at Southeast Missouri State University should be lowered from 124 hours to 120 hours.”  Discussion followed regarding integration of programs, 300 and/or 400 level class options, major and capstone classes.  Stephens stated that though the 120 hours will not be a mandate for all programs, she does believe as an institution, we are obligated to offer baccalaureate degrees that a student should be able complete in four years.  She stated that it is a national concern and in some states it is being addressed by legislative action.  Janzow stated that this is a good faith effort for students to get a baccalaureate degree in four years and sees the reasonable solution as integration of the General Education 400 level course with the major capstone course in some instances.  Janzow stated that the General Education Council recommends either of two options – (1) the elimination of one-300 level course; (2) integration of 400 level General Education courses and capstone courses.  The Council did not support the elimination of a 300 level course but did support the second option.  After discussion regarding the implementation date and with publishing constraints for the Bulletin, it was agreed that the timeframe for the 120-hour degree implementation would be fall, 2005 [Published in the 2005-06 Bulletin].  There was discussion of whether 120 hours is the minimum versus the target.  Stephens clarified that while the motion states “a minimum,” that, as Provost, she will ask for careful review to try to accommodate the new minimum.  Upon the call for motion, motion passed with one opposing vote.
    
2. Second Degree Requirements.  Hinkle made a motion that students may earn two degrees by completing the requirements for both programs.  Both degree/major/minor combinations will appear on the official transcript.  Where applicable, courses will fulfill requirements on both degree programs.  McDougall seconded.  Motion passed.
    
3. Double Major.  Hinkle stated that this issue is moot with the passing of the Second Degree Requirements motion (above) which removed 20 additional hours.  After discussion, the proposal died for lack of a motion.
    
3. Discussion Items
   
1. Admission Requirements for International Students Sub-Committee.  Stephens appointed a sub-committee to investigate the admission requirements for non-degree seeking international students versus degree seeking international students.  The sub-committee is charged to look at legal issues; determine what other institutions are doing; and clarify what emphasis should be on English speaking ability.  Chair: Hinkle; Members: Syler, Ferguson, Prater, and Cron.  It is hoped that the sub-committee will report their findings at the next meeting.