N.M. Admin. Code § 5.5.3.8

Current through Register Vol. 35, No. 23, December 10, 2024

Section 5.5.3.8 - CRITERIA FOR PROGRAMS OF TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE

The commission will recognize as programs of technical excellence a limited number of technology programs (one to two per year after initial designations) at two-year institutions according to the following criteria:

A. Uniqueness of the program: designation as a "program of technical excellence" will generally be reserved for highly specialized and/or state-of-the-art technical programs which are unique within the state of New Mexico. These programs will usually be characterized by high operating, equipment, or facilities costs which the state cannot afford to duplicate. Special consideration will also be given to programs which, although not totally unique, meet the other criteria for program of technical excellence designation and are of particular significance in terms of meeting state educational and economic development goals.

B. Educational Demand: There must be a demonstrated and well-documented demand for the program in terms of meeting present and future needs of the state and nation. Such evidence will include current and projected job market requirements, past and projected student enrollment, support of employer advisory committees, and other relevant data.

C. Program Planning: Programs of technical excellence should be specifically identified in the institution's five-year plan. Current and projected data on enrollments, equipment and other costs, placement rates, economic conditions in the industry and plans for future development of the program should be incorporated in the plan.

D. Operational Costs: By virtue of its specialization and/or high level of technical sophistication, a program of technical excellence may require financial support above the level provided through current funding mechanisms for operational costs. Annual inflationary adjustments would be recommended on the same basis as provided for other higher education activities.

E. Availability of Student Housing: Programs of technical excellence are intended to serve students from a broader geographic area than the local community. The institution must demonstrate that it can arrange or provide suitable housing on-campus or off-campus for students from outside of the local community.

F. Program Evaluation: An annual program evaluation by the institution is required for all programs of technical excellence.

(a) The commission in conjunction with the state department of education will provide direction to institutions regarding the content and format of the evaluation report, which should be submitted by August 1 of each year.

(b) The evaluation should document the continued need and demand for the program, performance of the program based on program objectives, enrollment levels, placement of graduates, and similar criteria. The evaluation report will be used by the commission to determine whether the program is meeting the educational needs of the state and merits continued designation of program of technical excellence.

(c) A full program review will be conducted by the commission and state department of education staff every three to five years.

G. Articulation: Courses included in the general education component of a program of technical excellence should be offered at other public degree-granting institutions and fully transferable and applicable to the degree requirements of the program of technical excellence.

N.M. Admin. Code § 5.5.3.8

12/31/98; Recompiled 10/31/01