Board approves new programs

 The Marshall University Board of Governors approved three new degree programs for the university in its final meeting of the session on June 17. The board approved the addition of a Master of Science degree in health informatics; the courses for the degree will be taught in the College of Business, College of Information Technology and the College of Health Professions. 

In addition, the board approved an intent to plan for a Bachelor of Science in public health. If the program is added, Marshall University would become the 11th school in the country to have such a program at the undergraduate level.

The other addition approved by the board is an undergraduate major in sports journalism in the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism and Mass Communications.

Marshall University President Stephen Kopp spoke to the board to stress the economic role of Marshall University in West Virginia. "For every dollar the state legislature invested in Marshall University, Marshall returned $20 to the state economy."

Kopp addressed several new "enhancements" he said will further improve the university, including the new core general education program and an advising center scheduled to open in the Memorial Student Center in August. "There's a lot going on that doesn't get the recognition it deserves," Kopp said.

Kopp also told the board he expects more than 2,000 first-time freshmen to attend Marshall this fall, the most in the university's history.

Director of Athletics Mike Hamrick also spoke at the meeting. He said all athletic programs surpassed the Academic Progress Rate required by the NCAA, with an average of 964. Programs must achieve a 925 or better to avoid sanctions. 

The board also announced the addition of a veterans advocate. The advocate will serve the needs of service personnel who come to the university, including adjusting to student life.

The next Board of Governors meeting is scheduled for Aug. 26. 

Sam Turley can be contacted at turley60@marshall.edu.