F
rates have been increasing. KSU cohort defaults vary between 18-29%. The current rate is 25.04%. KSU strives to keep its rate below 18% and plans to focus on increased financial literacy for students to ensure that students understand repayment terms and options, including face-to-face counseling for students.
V. Committee Reports
Academic Affairs:
Regent Bearden asked Dr. Thierstein to provide information regarding the following action items:
Master's in Interdisciplinary Behavioral Studies Program Proposal
Dr. Thierstein introduced Dr. Mara Merlino and Dr. Tierra Freeman, of the KSU Psychology Department to present the new program proposal for a Masters of Arts in Interdisciplinary Behavioral Sciences. This program would be a science-based program to move students into future Ph.D. programs.
As a result of increased growth in the fields of law and psychology as interdisciplinary study, Drs. Merlino and Freeman maintain that a Master's program would benefit KSU students and offer significant opportunity for growth for the university. The proposed program would be 45 hours (thesis option and non-thesis option) and could be completed in two (2) semesters plus summer. Applicable course work would include forensic counseling, theories of offending, trial consulting and advanced statistics.
Dr. Freeman and Dr. Merlino would serve as faculty for the new program and additional adjuncts will be added as needed. Twelve full-time and six part-time students are anticipated, with a course cap at 20 students. Many students currently at KSU have expressed interest in pursuing this type of program. The closest university offering a similar program is in Illinois. Another program is located in Florida, however, the proposed KSU program would be the only one offered by a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in the United States.
Completion of a Master's in Arts in Interdisciplinary Behavioral Sciences would be considered as a terminal degree in many instances.
Action: Motion was made by Regent Barfield and seconded by Regent Whitehead to approve the Master's in Arts in Interdisciplinary Behavioral Studies program request. The motion passed 8-0.
品