July 6-7, 2000

NOTICE OF INTENT   Approval of Proposal to Add a Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Technology and Design; Montana Tech of The University of Montana

THAT: The Board of Regents of Higher Education authorizes Montana Tech of The University of Montana to add a Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Technology and Design.

EXPLANATION: This proposed program is a cooperative effort between the North and South campuses of Montana Tech. The program couples an existing two-year curriculum in Network Technology with expertise in multimedia development available. The current Associate of Applied Science Degree is built upon the strength of a Cisco Networking Academy core curriculum, which is implemented worldwide. Credit for the Cisco courses, from high school or a post-secondary institution, are easily articulated into the curriculum. Furthermore, this program integrates articulation agreements with Montana high schools, allowing students to carry over other relevant coursework. Currently 635 students are involved with Networking Academy coursework in this state at a secondary or post-secondary level. These numbers represent an opportunity for students as well as colleges and universities to implement a true 2+2+2 model of articulation. The proposed degree also provides a vehicle to accommodate expansion of the networking curriculum as new courses become available.