The LSU System work group on organization and collaboration announced Wednesday that it plans to create up to 24 new degree and certification programs at LSU-Shreveport, according to a LSU System news release.
The work group was created in response to a study by Eva Klein and Associates that suggested merging LSUS with Louisiana Tech University and moving it to the University of Louisiana System.
The Commitment Plan is the group’s first response to a resolution unanimously passed by the Board of Supervisors in March for all LSU System institutions to dedicate more efforts to advance LSUS and cement the system’s commitment to the school.
In a memo to LSU Board of Supervisors Chairman Hank Danos, LSU System President John Lombardi said the initiatives “will have immediate impact in the Shreveport-Bossier area and a number of longer-term initiatives for institutional expansion and regional collaboration.”
Lombardi said the plan is only the first step in expanding programs at LSUS.
“One of the key elements in the success of this Commitment Plan is the recognition that all LSU institutions have a commitment to the success of LSUS, reflected in the willingness of campuses to mobilize appropriate programmatic support and academic sponsorship to move academic initiatives into operation quickly and effectively,” he said.
Several of the programs, like petroleum engineering, human resource education, sports administration, construction management and international studies, will be offered in collaboration with the LSU flagship campus.
The programs could be available at LSUS as early as this fall.
Richard Koubek, dean of the LSU College of Engineering, said the collaborative programs will allow LSU to share its “vast industrial and academic network” with LSUS, allowing northern Louisiana to advance.
According to the release, the plan, which will be rolled out over an 18-month period, won’t require any additional state funding but will be supported by self-generated funds like tuition and potential private donations.
“Board of Regents approval is not necessary for programs extended from LSU A&M because the Flagship Campus already has a recognized statewide mission,” the release states.
Some of the programs will be offered partially online, but most will require increased use of existing LSUS facilities, including classrooms and laboratory space.
 
 
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Contact Rachel Warren at [email protected]