COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION

Representative Don Carlson, Chair

BILL ANALYSIS

HB 2959

Authorizing collaborative grants.

BACKGROUND:  The Higher Education Coordinating Board's Master Plan for higher education projects that Washington's system of higher education needs to provide opportunities for at least 84,000 additional full-time equivalent students by the 2010.  Many believe that greater collaboration among public and private institutions of higher education may help meet the increasing demands for higher education.

SUMMARY:   The Higher Education Coordinating Board may award collaboration grants to institutions of higher education.  Public and independent institutions of higher education may participate in the program.  The grants will be used for the planning and design of instructional programs.  Approved proposals must: 1) be offered by two or more institutions of higher education; 2) be cost effective; 3) expand student access; and 4) make use of existing classroom space and faculty expertise.  The board will evaluate the program and report to the governor and Legislature in December of even numbered years.