In a series of proposals dubbed 'Effectiveness and Efficiency,' the University System of Maryland will consider requiring 10 percent of credits be earned outside the classroom, limiting degree programs to 120 credits and boosting enrollment at comprehensive universities like Towson.
The report, titled 'Efficiency Studies' and prepared for the Md. General Assembly, outlines 16 action items relating to cost containment.
'With an increasing enrollment demand and limited financial resources, it is clear that the university system cannot afford to do business as usual,' chancellor William Kirwan said in a letter to faculty and staff Tuesday.
Kirwan will formally introduce the report to the Board of Regents at a meeting Friday at Salisbury University. The 16 action items will require approval by the full board. The proposals could save $26.6 million next fiscal year.
The system plans to 'increase enrollment at the "comprehensive" institutions,' including TU, 'thereby avoiding the higher costs of undergraduate education at research institutions and providing education to a growing number of students at a lower cost to the state.'
Most degree programs will be limited to 120 credits -- and students who do not 'finish their degrees in a timely manner' will be penalized through a 'financial disincentive' to be determined, the report said.
Additionally, USM institutions will ensure that students 'complete at least 12 credits required for graduation outside of the traditional classroom experience,' the proposal stated. 'Options available to accomplish this standard will include: online courses, independent study, study abroad, service learning, internships, credit by exam, and advanced placement credits. This standard will be implemented for students admitted in fall 2005.'
The report also calls for the system to collaborate on more of its administrative functions, including financial aid and human resource management; purchase more commodities on a system-wide basis; and take steps to eliminate 'unnecessary duplication of functions.'
A Cost Containment Report attached to the E&E report detailed each institution"s FY 2004 initiatives to save money.
Budget reductions, cost savings and reallocations resulted in $7,188,000 in 'efficiency initiatives' at TU. These included $1,406,000 related to the elimination of 26 state-supported positions, $203,000 in cancelled motor vehicle replacements, and a $300,000 reduction in the travel budget. The 'consolidation or cancellation of 71 class sections with low enrollment' resulted in a $150,000 savings.
The recommendations are accessible online at http://www.usmd.edu/jcr/index.html.
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