SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6177

                    As of January 12, 2000

Title:  An act relating to doctoral programs in computer science and engineering.

Brief Description:  Requiring recommendations about the creation of a doctoral program in computer science and engineering.

Sponsors:  Senators Jacobsen, Kohl‑Welles, Costa, McAuliffe and Winsley.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Higher Education:  1/17/2000.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION

Staff:  Jean Six (786-7423)

Background:  The state of Washington is experiencing growing demands for supplying the skilled workforce required by the high-technology industry.  Some believe that postsecondary education must be more responsive to the workforce needs of the software industry, particulary at the postgraduate level.

Summary of Bill:  By June 30, 2001, the Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB) must make recommendations to the Legislature about the creation and institutional location of a doctoral program in computer science and engineering.  The HECB must evaluate future and current job opportunities for doctoral degree holders in Washington State and the United States; the number of persons with doctoral degrees currently employed in Washington and the names of the doctoral granting institutions; and the number of Washington students who would be interested in pursuing doctoral degrees.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 10, 2000.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.