PA SSHE Universities see legislation to offer advanced degrees

[from Senator Robbin's Jan. 17 newsletter] The Senate unanimously approved legislation on Tuesday that would provide new opportunities for Pennsylvania's 14-member universities of the State System of Higher Education (SSHE) to offer advanced degrees.

Senate Bill 1133 would allow the member universities to offer applied doctorate degrees, a level of education currently only available at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. SSHE officials stress the expansion will not impact IUP, but rather augment and modernize the entire system to make it more competitive and attract more students.

SB 1133 would set defined standards for establishing applied doctorate programs – a degree for working professionals who must be licensed to practice in their field of expertise – under the direct control and oversight of SSHE.  IUP will remain the only SSHE-member university to offer PhD programs, which are for those pursing research and engaging in scholarship.

The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.