ESU to provide programs in Western Kansas through 'Access US'

Emporia State University will join forces with Fort Hays State University and Kansas State University to bring new bachelors and masters-level degree programs to western Kansas.

Officials from the three universities, the Board of Regents, the legislature and six community colleges announced their plans at an August 5 meeting in Dodge City.

"We have put aside many of our individual needs and differences and focused on the needs of the students," said ESU President Kay Schallenkamp.

"Access US" short for "Access University System," will deliver courses to "place-bound" students, such as working professionals, displaced workers and others who cannot attend classes at a traditional four-year university.

The three universities will provide courses at community colleges in Colby, Pratt, Dodge City, Garden City, Barton County and Seward County. The courses will be delivered through a combination of face-to-face, Internet and two-way satellite television instruction. Higher education leaders still have to work out details such as standardizing tuition, providing student services and creating a common list of courses and degree requirements.

"It's not going to be an easy process," said Schallenkamp. "A number of issues still need to be worked on - and yet we're moving forward."

Schallenkamp also recognized the role community colleges will play in recruiting students to Access US programs. "The colleges are the ones who know how to identify cohort groups, those pockets of individuals who have shared academic interests. As a university president, I truly appreciate the generosity and commitment of community colleges as they assist individuals in Western Kansas to complete bachelors and masters degrees."

Kansas universities have offered upper-division courses in Western Kansas before, but Regent Donna Shank says these efforts have sometimes been hampered when low enrollment has caused programs to be discontinued. A $200,000 allotment from the state legislature will guarantee that programs will continue even if enrollment drops below the "break-even" point.

The first bachelor's degree program in Technology Leadership with an emphasis in automotive technology, will begin August 25 at Pratt Community College. The program is offered by Fort Hays State University and already has 22 students enrolled, according to FHSU president Ed Hammond.

A second bachelor's degree in general studies, with a business emphasis in accounting and marketing, will be offered by all three institutions in 2004. Future programs could include nursing and allied health as well as post-graduate classes in education.

Last Updated July 2, 2007>