An Inquiry into the Relationship Between Area Vocational-Technical Schools and Other Institutions of Higher Education in Minnesota.

Overview & Synopsis

The 1969 Minnesota State Legislature requested that the Higher Education Coordinating Commission make an inquiry into the relationship between area vocational-technical schools and other institutions of higher education in Minnesota. This report presents recommendations based on a study that included background information about 27 area vocational-technical schools, 17 state junior colleges, the state colleges, the University of Minnesota, and selected private institutions in the state. The 6 recommendations of the Committee are: (1) occupational programs should continue to be offered by all types of postsecondary institutions; (2) proposals for establishing new, public, postsecondary institutions of all types should be reviewed by the Commission, which, in turn, should recommend legislative authorization for all proposed institutions receiving favorable review; (3) expanded cooperation between higher education institutions and area vocational-technical schools located in the same or neighboring communities should continue to be encouraged; (4) the program review function of the Commission should be strengthened and should continue to include considerations of new and existing vocational and occupational education programs; (5) the Commission should review and make recommendations annually to the State Board for Vocational Education as related to postsecondary education; and (6) legislation should be enacted providing authorization for any area vocational-technical school to become a state institution upon petition and recommendation. The underlying rationale for these proposals is explained in depth. (Author/HS)