Chair Andries pointed out that Chemistry is trying to address recognized needs. Biology faculty desire a “combined degree” that does not overlap and compete but is collaboratively designed.

A non-Senator inquired of the opinion of the Divisional Chair, Dr. Bigdeli. Chair Andries said she had signed and approved the action item. The Biology professor contended the degree should set requirements for specific desired professional pursuits instead of offering a list of electives.

Senate voted an extension of time for 10 minutes with one abstention.

A Senator inquired if a B.A. in a science field holds value in professional work. Chair Andries said that it is conceivable that a B.A. in Chemistry could be a desirable complement to a Law Degree, or pre-pharmacy, but he questioned the concept of a B.A. in a science discipline. The argument was again made that WKU and EKU have B.A. degrees in Science disciplines.

A Senator questioned the lack of specificity of directed classes for desired professional directions and students need more advisement in that area.

A non-Senator raised the possibility of cross-listing for such a degree and more collaboration within the Division.

The issue of CPE approval per “new degree” classification and CIP degree code per number of graduates was raised and discussed. A non-Senator said that if the change is less than 25% of the curriculum approval is at the University level and does not need CPE approval.

Deputy Provost Sipes pointed out that when some degree programs recently changed from B.A. to B.S., for an indication of “professional” statue, the change did not have to go to CPE. A Senator pointed out in most of those cases there was no change to the curriculum but just change from B.A. to B.S. The Biology faculty member said the Division should work toward a double major in Chemistry and Biology instead of two competing degrees. A B.A. requires a minimum of 20 hours in specified discipline while a B.S. requires 30%. (B.A. must be 25-30% in major discipline)

Dean Shelton said that somewhere, she was not sure where, there is policy that there should be a way to complete a B.A. if the student cannot take the B.S. option. The Biology professor said that the student can fulfill that option in Biology already.

Motion to extend time for vote was passed by voice vote with one abstention.

A friendly amendment was accepted to table and send back to committee. Motion passed by voice vote. Chair Andries recorded that one non-Senator voted. Senate Secretary requested a show of hands instead of voice vote and motion passed by 11 aye, 1 no and 1 abstention.

Chair Gebremedhin brought forth:

FSAPC 17-18-08: The changes will bring the 2018-2019 calendar in line with current policy.

This action item includes all of which was approved at Special Faculty Meeting on February 20th.

Approved by voice vote with one abstention.