Dear Campus Community,
The planned strategic review of Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) continues to draw significant public interest and numerous internal questions related to the possibility of institutional mergers and closures. Chancellor Brogan, in his most recent statement to Pennsylvania legislators, made it clear the State System does not have a preconceived intention to close any of the universities, but intends to find solutions that are right for Pennsylvania. The goal of the review is to enable whatever changes are necessary to ensure all the System universities can better serve students through high quality education experiences, and operate in a financially sustainable way.
The review will consist of looking at how we are organized and are we operating in the most efficient and effective way possible. I assure you that Bloomsburg is in a strong position both academically and financially.
According to a recent financial risk assessment conducted by PASSHE, Bloomsburg University has the third highest acceptable financial risk in the State System. Undergraduate enrollment declined by only 2.8% from our peak in 2011. This decline in enrollment reflects a shrinking pool of high school graduates statewide. Graduate enrollment declined 27% since 2011, partially due to the lack of PA ACT 48 funding for continuing professional education and certification requirements for teachers, significantly affecting our graduate teacher education programs. However, Bloomsburg’s recent strategic enrollment management efforts focused on graduate student recruitment have resulted in a 7% increase in 2016 from the prior year. It was the first increase in graduate enrollment since the peak in 2011.
As part of Bloomsburg’s strategic enrollment plan, we are expanding programs such as our bachelor of applied science in technology, RN to BSN, MBA at Center City, and other programs that accelerate the path of students from undergraduate to careers or graduate study. Institutional aid and coordinated programs to support student success are also part of the plan. The five-year institutional strategic enrollment plan will be presented to the Council of Trustees at their June meeting for implementation beginning fall 2017.
BU has been an innovator in higher education for 178 years, and is committed to delivering high quality education that is accessible to all students for years to come.
More information about the System review is available at http://bit.ly/2jFXcqg.
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