Washington Administrative Code Title 249A - Higher Education, Joint Center for
Washington Administrative Code Title 249A – Higher Education, Joint Center for
Overview
Title 249A of the Washington Administrative Code pertains to the Joint Center for Higher Education in Washington State. This center is a collaborative effort among several public higher education institutions in the state, aiming to coordinate and enhance higher education offerings, especially in specific geographic regions or specialized fields.
The rules in this title outline the establishment, governance, operation, and responsibilities of the Joint Center, as well as the roles of participating institutions.
Purpose of the Joint Center for Higher Education
The main objectives of the Joint Center are to:
Facilitate cooperation among public colleges and universities.
Improve access to higher education across the state, especially in underserved or rural areas.
Coordinate academic programs to avoid duplication and make efficient use of resources.
Promote innovative instructional methods, such as distance learning.
Support regional economic development through workforce training and education aligned with local needs.
Key Components of Title 249A WAC
1. Establishment and Authority
The Joint Center is established by the Washington Higher Education Coordinating Board or a designated governing authority.
It operates as a collaborative entity rather than a separate institution.
It leverages the resources and programs of existing public higher education institutions.
2. Participating Institutions
Public universities and community colleges in Washington State participate in the Joint Center.
Each institution contributes programs, faculty, and resources.
Institutions work together to offer joint degree programs, certificates, or training.
3. Governance and Administration
The Joint Center has a governing board or council made up of representatives from the participating institutions.
This governing body sets policies, approves programs, and oversees budgeting.
Administration may be coordinated by a designated director or executive committee.
4. Academic Programs and Services
The Center offers programs tailored to regional workforce needs, including degrees, certificates, and continuing education.
It may provide shared instructional facilities or technology platforms for distance education.
Programs aim to reduce barriers to higher education, such as geographic isolation or scheduling conflicts.
5. Funding and Budgeting
The Joint Center receives funding from state allocations, grants, tuition, and possibly private sources.
Participating institutions may contribute resources or share costs according to agreed formulas.
Budgeting must comply with state higher education funding policies.
6. Reporting and Accountability
The Joint Center regularly reports to the Higher Education Coordinating Board or other oversight entities.
Reports include program effectiveness, enrollment data, fiscal management, and compliance with state regulations.
Accountability ensures that the Center meets educational goals and uses resources efficiently.
Importance of Title 249A WAC
Promotes collaboration among public higher education institutions.
Increases educational opportunities for students, especially in underserved regions.
Supports workforce development aligned with state and regional economic priorities.
Ensures efficient use of public resources through coordinated planning.
Encourages innovation in delivery methods like distance learning.
Summary
Title 249A governs the Washington State Joint Center for Higher Education.
The Center is a collaborative body involving public colleges and universities.
It coordinates programs to improve access, reduce duplication, and meet workforce needs.
The title outlines governance, administration, funding, and reporting requirements.
It plays a key role in expanding and enhancing higher education throughout the state.
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