Kentucky State University (KSU) has taken a significant step in its transformation to a polytechnic institution under Senate Bill 185. The Council on Postsecondary Education approved a new academic structure for KSU at its June meeting, which includes six newly defined areas of study: Applied Sciences, Engineering, Health Sciences, Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Technology.

Academic Programs

These areas will organize the university’s academic portfolio around highly technical, industry-based applied learning aligned with Kentucky’s workforce needs. KSU will continue 28 academic programs that support the university’s revised mission and long-term academic strategy. The approved programs followed a comprehensive review of each academic program’s financial stability, enrollment viability, workforce demand, academic outcomes, and alignment with KSU’s new polytechnic mission.

The council also approved the closure of four undergraduate programs: music education, music performance, political science, and child development and family studies. KSU will develop teach-out plans for affected students, which must be submitted to the Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Financial Obligations

The Council also approved a financial obligation and expenditure approval policy for KSU to streamline processes created by Senate Bill 185. This policy requires KSU to seek prior approval from the Council on Postsecondary Education for expenditures over $20,000 and to submit an annual operating budget for monitoring purposes.

Original reporting: WTVQ (Lexington) — read the source article.