Meeting date
ITEM XXX-XXX-XXXXX
Approval to Create Professional Communication and Communication Studies Options in the
Associate of Arts Degree
THAT
The Board of Regents of Higher Education authorizes The University of Montana to create Professional
Communication and Communication Studies Options in the Associate of Arts Degree.
EXPLANATION
Many two-year colleges across the nation provide communication studies options within the Associate of
Arts degree. These options primarily respond to the need to assist students in their matriculation into a
Bachelor Degree in Communication Studies. However, they also provide students with the ability to focus
their AA degree in an area that is of increasing demand to employers.
In addition, retention is an important strategic issue at the University of Montana. Packaging courses for
students interested in pursuing communication studies creates an incentive for students to complete their
AA degree. It also assists with advising and assessing students’ transition from their two-year degree into
a four-year degree, both important processes for increasing retention.
ATTACHMENTS
Proposal Narrative Summary , Including Program Details
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