Section 4: Strategic Initiatives

1.      New Department of Molecular Life Sciences (Some Biology faculty wish to establish a new department in the School of Technology)
 

a.      The vision for the new department includes a strong focus on molecular-biological content, extensive experience in a laboratory setting, deliberate emphasis on the communication of research, a strong commitment to community educational outreach, and contact and cooperation with local biotech and biomedical research industries.

 

2.      New Department of Journalism

Form a new department of journalism to house the endowed chair of journalism and create a new undergraduate major.
 

3.      New program: Master of Arts in Liberal Studies

This degree program was originally initiated by the former dean of Arts & Sciences, June Higgins.  The MALS Program is designed for the student who desires a wide-ranging course of study that single disciplinary Master’s degrees cannot provide.  It is the uniquely expansive, interdisciplinary nature of the MALS Program that will allow and challenge students to raise and answer questions about the complexities of society and the human condition. 
 

4.      New program: B.S. in Digital and Optical Science

Departments of Physics and Computer Science
 

5.      New Department of International Studies (or at least enhance the existing International Studies major, minor and graduate programs).
 

a.      Add specialization in foreign policy

 

6.      New Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) -- 50 credit hour degree that combines a teaching certificate with a master’s degree 

The Department of Mathematical Science, in cooperation with the Department of Teacher Education, is considering offering the degree Master of Arts in Teaching for graduate students seeking secondary certification.   

The two programs would be combined into a single degree consisting of approximately 50 credits. The bulk of the program would be taken prior to being certified to teach, but one component of the program would require additional coursework including seminars for first and second year teachers. 

This program will make CCSU more competitive with other universities that offer graduate certification and a master’s degree as a single package. At the same time we will maintain our high academic standards by giving students a rigorous program that deepens their understanding of mathematics and helps them improve upon their teaching effectiveness during the critical first two years they are in the profession. 
 

7.      New 6th Year Program in Mathematics Education 

The Department of Mathematical Sciences is considering developing a 6th year program in mathematics education for teachers and administrators in K-12 education. 

The proposal provides for the creation of at least 15 credits of 600-level mathematics education courses. The program would consist of 15 credits of 600-level Mathematics Education classes plus 15 credits of electives (at the 500-level or above) approved by the student’s advisor. Students admitted to this program should have the equivalent of our MS for certified elementary teachers or certified secondary teachers. The electives may include additional course work in mathematics and/or courses in the School of Education. Students seeking certification as department chairpersons will be encouraged to take appropriate EDL courses (such as EDL 513, Supervision and EDL 514 Administration). 

Eventually we would like to see a specialty designated “mathematics education” or “curriculum and literacy” added to the Ed.D. program, to consist of at least 15 credits of 600-level courses in mathematics education. Students electing this specialty will have a dissertation advisor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences. We have been advised by the Department of Educational Leadership that the earliest date such a change could be made is 2007, after the Board of Higher Education completes its five year review of Central’s Ed.D. 
 

8.      The following Departments request additional lines

·        English: Digital and non-print media as recommended to meet NCATE accreditation

·        History: Additional position for Public History Program; establish Center for Public History

·        Math: Positions needed to meet high demand

·        Sociology: Quantitative Methods

·        Criminology: Line needed to meet increasing student demand

·        Design: Line needed to meet increased student demand
 

9.      New graduate degree program in Anthropology

10. Creation of a New Institute of Forensic Computing

Department of Computer Science
 

11. Doctorate program for Nurse Anesthetists 

The accrediting body for nurse anesthesia schools most likely is going to require, that directors and assistant directors of nurse anesthesia programs have a doctorate degree by 2014 (proposal will be voted on in November or December, 2003).  The Department of Biological Sciences, in conjunction with three affiliated hospital schools of nurse anesthesia, currently offers a master’s program for individuals to become nurse anesthetists. There are very few nurse anesthetists with doctoral degrees and there appears to be a need for more doctoral program options. More information needs to be gathered to continue department discussions.
 

12. Criminology will expand a specialization in Forensic Technology.

 

13. Increase certificate programs and training workshops.

 

14. Spotlight and expand experiential learning opportunities in the form of internship placements, community based assignments.

 

15. Enhance opportunities for faculty professional development and scholarship.

 

16. Improve the physical working/learning environment.