California State University: doctoral programs.
The passage of AB 656 significantly impacts state laws relating to postsecondary education in California by enabling CSU to expand its role in awarding doctoral degrees. Traditionally, UC held exclusive rights to award doctoral degrees, making collaboration between the two systems essential for joint programs. This bill amends that framework by allowing CSU to offer more degrees aimed at professional pathways, particularly in fields where there is a recognized demand for advanced training. It establishes parameters that ensure CSU doctoral offerings complement rather than compete with those of UC, maintaining the integrity of California's educational structure.
Assembly Bill 656, authored by McCarty, focuses on reforming the doctoral program offerings within the California State University (CSU) system. Specifically, it allows CSU to award professional or applied doctoral degrees that do not duplicate existing University of California (UC) doctoral programs. This reform is designed to enhance educational opportunities for students and reduce barriers to advanced degrees within the CSU framework. By expanding the ability of CSU campuses to offer certain doctoral programs, the bill aims to address identified workforce needs and ensure that California's educational institutions can better meet the diverse professional needs of its residents.
The sentiment surrounding AB 656 has been generally positive among supporters who advocate for increased accessibility to doctoral education in California. The proponents argue that the bill addresses crucial workforce needs and empowers CSU to provide advanced educational opportunities. However, there are concerns from critics who fear that any perceived duplication of programs may dilute the quality and reputation of existing UC doctoral programs. Nonetheless, the majority of the legislative support reflects a recognition of CSU's potential to contribute substantively to higher education and workforce development.
Despite the overall support for AB 656, notable points of contention include the fear of potential overlap between CSU and UC program offerings. The bill incorporates measures to mitigate these conflicts, such as requiring campuses to demonstrate that proposed new degrees do not duplicate existing UC programs. Additionally, only a limited number of new doctoral disciplines can be approved each year, capped at ten, which seeks to alleviate concerns about oversaturation within the educational market. The responsibilities placed on CSU and the Chancellor’s office to maintain communication with independent college representatives are also contentious points that reflect ongoing negotiations regarding program ownership and institutional jurisdiction.