Oklahoma Constitution Article XIII-A: OKLAHOMA STATE SYSTEM OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Oklahoma Constitution – Article XIII-A: Oklahoma State System of Higher Education – Summary
Article XIII-A, adopted by vote of the people in 1941, establishes a unified and coordinated Oklahoma State System of Higher Education. This article provides the legal and organizational framework for public colleges and universities in Oklahoma.
🔹 1. Creation of the State System
Establishes the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education as a unified structure for all public institutions of higher education in the state.
Ensures coordination, efficiency, and standardization among universities, colleges, and technical schools funded by the state.
🔹 2. Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education
Governing and coordinating body: Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education
Composition: Nine members appointed by the Governor with Senate confirmation.
Serve nine-year staggered terms
No more than one member's term expires each year
Qualifications: Appointees must be citizens of Oklahoma.
🔹 3. Powers and Duties of the State Regents
Determine functions and courses of study for institutions.
Prescribe standards of education.
Grant degrees and diplomas.
Recommend budget needs of each institution to the Legislature.
Allocate funds to institutions based on needs and functions.
Coordinate enrollment, admissions, and other academic standards.
Maintain records and reports for institutional accountability.
🔹 4. Institutional Autonomy
Individual institutions maintain internal management and control.
Boards of Regents for specific universities still handle day-to-day operations, property, and internal governance—subject to coordination and oversight by the State Regents.
🔹 5. Funding and Budgeting
State Regents prepare a unified budget for higher education and submit it to the Governor and Legislature.
Regents allocate appropriated funds among the institutions based on approved functions and programs.
🔹 6. Purpose and Intent
Aims to avoid duplication, reduce costs, and ensure uniform standards.
Promotes the best use of public funds and educational resources across the state.
RELATED Blog
0 comments