255  Inter-Institutional Relationships

Approved by President
Effective Date: June 5, 2017
Responsible Division:  Academic Affairs
Responsible Office:  University Provost
Responsible Officer:  Vice Provost for Academic Programs

I. Purpose

This policy establishes the criteria and process for inter-institutional relationships and off-campus offerings governed by Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU or University).

II. Off-Campus Centers

An off-campus instructional unit shall be considered an off-campus center (OCC) if it involves a significant continuing commitment of University resources as evidenced by faculty, staff, facilities, and equipment, and if it fulfills standards established for centers by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

A.  Each OCC's purpose shall be clearly defined in MTSU’s annual role and scope statement.

B.  Each OCC's degree and non-degree offerings must be consistent with MTSU’s role and scope statement. The non-degree offerings must comply with the guidelines as set forth in the Tennessee Higher Education Commission document, Guidelines for Awarding and Reporting CEU's.

C.  Course and program delivery by joint institutional OCC's shall be determined by written agreement between participating institutions.

D.  A proposal for the establishment of a new OCC shall be forwarded to the MTSU Board of Trustees (Board) for approval. Requirements for approval shall include:

1.  A needs assessment survey.

2.  Evidence of the OCC's ability to meet the SACSCOC standards.

3.  A five (5) year projected budget for continued operation.

4.  At five (5) year intervals, or upon request of the Board, an evaluation of each OCC shall be made on the following bases:

a.  A current needs assessment survey.

b.  Demonstrated ability of the OCC to meet both University role and scope statements and SACSCOC standards.

c.  A five (5) year projected budget for continued operation.

E.  Off-Campus Degree and Non-Degree Offerings

1.  The President or designee should designate a contact regarding off-campus offerings.

2.  Off-campus offerings should be aligned with the mission of the involved academic department, the appropriate college, and the University.

F.  Proposed contracts for regional or statewide delivery of courses and programs to business entities or special interest groups must be in accordance with MTSU policy.

G.  Exceptions to this policy may be made upon recommendation of the President and approval by the Board.

Forms: none.

Revisions: none.

Last Reviewed: June 2017.

References: none.