This bill amends several sections of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska related to state colleges, specifically focusing on instructional priorities and degree programs. It changes the language regarding the degree conferred by the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges from a "four-year course in liberal arts" to a "liberal arts program." Additionally, it establishes that the state colleges' first instructional priority will be baccalaureate programs in education, followed by master's and doctoral programs in education and other areas authorized by the Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the need for state colleges, such as Chadron State College, Peru State College, and Wayne State College, to prioritize the development of new baccalaureate degree programs based on the needs of rural Nebraska, rather than limiting them. It also allows these colleges to offer doctoral degrees in education and other master's programs, contingent upon demonstrating a compelling need and receiving approval from the Board of Trustees. The original sections being amended are repealed as part of this legislative update.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 85-308.01, 85-941, 85-951, 85-956, 85-957, 85-958