Detail arrangements with lower level schools to ensure adequate preparation of entering students.

Applicants to the KSU MES program are expected to have a diverse undergraduate academic background. Graduates of any accredited college or university should be able to pursue the proposed MES degree.

Document the need and demand for the program. How many students will be drawn from other majors?

The traditional farming and mining-based economic structure of Kentucky is changing quite rapidly due to a number of factors. As alternatives are sought for tobacco farming for people who have depended on such practices for generations, not only current job opportunities in technology oriented sectors but also on future job market scenarios need to be considered. Efficient use of current energy sources and exploration for alternative energy sources will constitute a major segment of the future job opportunities and challenges. Kentucky is blessed with substantial coal reserve. Exploration of this major domestic energy source and at the same time minimizing its environmental impact in terms of degradation to land, water, and air quality will require highly trained scientists and engineers as well as graduates with broader understanding of the complex interrelated issues. The KSU MES program will attract not only traditional graduate students, but will open the door for adult learners and other professionals who might choose to take advantage of the new opportunities and challenges mentioned above. This program does not duplicate any existing program in the Commonwealth. The KSU MES interdisciplinary program will serve a unique niche of potential students. Results of the needs survey have been discussed in Section B of this proposal.

Detail plans for student recruitment (include specific plans to attract non-traditional students, including minorities, and to address gender related issues.)

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