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Board advances several bachelor’s programs; KU’s pharmaceutical degree and K‑State Olathe request moved to consent
Summary
The Regents moved a K‑State Olathe BS in applied interdisciplinary studies to the consent agenda, approved KU’s BS in pharmaceutical and biomedical science for the consent agenda, and agreed to move Memorial State University’s proposed BS in cybersecurity to the full board discussion agenda after debate on overlap and coordination.
The Board of Regents considered multiple academic program requests and acted to advance them through the board process.
K‑State Olathe presenters described a proposed BS in applied interdisciplinary studies as a degree‑completion pathway for community college transfers and students with partial college credits. Dean Ben Wolf and Associate Dean Darren Smith said the program will be housed in the College of Applied and Professional Studies and serve students statewide; presenters clarified the program will not use JACERT funds for the degree. Regents approved moving the request to the consent agenda.
KU presented a research‑intensive Bachelor of Science in pharmaceutical and biomedical science. Dr. Mark Farrell, associate professor of medicinal chemistry, said the degree aims to prepare students for research roles in industry, regulatory work and advanced health professional training; Regents moved the request to the consent agenda and approved it by voice vote.
Provost Thomas introduced a proposed BS in cybersecurity from Memorial State University and emphasized workforce need. Regents pressed presenters on potential duplication with existing programs (Wichita State, K‑State and KU). Presenters described plans for a coordinating council to align curricular offerings, pursue federal grants jointly, and clarify niche areas (for example, operational technology and critical infrastructure). Regents agreed to move the cybersecurity request to the full board discussion agenda so campuses can continue coordination.
Key quotes: Dean Ben Wolf described the applied interdisciplinary program as an ‘‘avenue for students’’ who need a completion option; Dr. Mark Farrell said the pharmaceutical and biomedical degree ‘‘pairs students for roles in R&D, quality control, and regulatory positions.’’
Outcome: All three program items were advanced as described (K‑State Olathe and KU to consent; cybersecurity to full board discussion) and will appear on the board agenda for further action.
