Postsecondary Education in Minnesota: A Commitment to Quality, Access and Diversity.

Overview & Synopsis

Recommendations of the Commission on the Future of Minnesota Post-Secondary Education are presented. A mission statement is proposed for adoption by the state, along with four principles to guide policy development. While the Commission does not recommend closing of any campuses in 1984, it suggested that criteria and procedures be developed for the annual review of the scope, mix, and cost of programs. The following issues are also addressed, and recommendations and cost estimates are included: stronger coordination between colleges and high schools, marketing higher education for lifelong learning, tuition policies, student financial aid, developmental/remedial education, establishing demonstration centers for instructional technology, enhancing the quality of graduate education and research, and linking higher education to employment needs. Recommendations directed to each system of post-secondary education are also provided. Because of their unique roles, specific attention is directed to the Higher Education Coordinating Board and to systems leadership, including the need for area or regional planning. Public policy concerning private higher education is also discussed. (SW)