Bill > HB616

This bill modifies provisions related to higher education degree-granting authority in Missouri, primarily focusing on changes to the Coordinating Board for Higher Education's roles and responsibilities. The bill removes previous restrictions on which public institutions can offer certain types of degrees, such as doctoral or professional degrees, and instead gives the Coordinating Board more flexibility in approving new degree programs. Specifically, the board can now approve new degree programs if an institution demonstrates good-faith collaboration efforts, contributes to state educational goals, has existing capacity to deliver high-quality programs, and can demonstrate a clear workforce need. The bill also updates the composition and duties of the Coordinating Board, including establishing guidelines for institutional missions, transfer policies, and student remediation practices. Additionally, it transfers various educational entities and functions to the new Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, and provides more autonomy to state colleges and universities in developing and offering degree programs, subject to the Coordinating Board's approval process.

Education, Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB616&year=2025&code=R