In doctoral education, the Board has asked institutions to consider developing alternatives to the standard research model for programs whose main purpose is to prepare graduates for teaching and applied research. The Board is currently exploring ways in which statewide program review and approval criteria can better support the development and maintenance of high quality undergraduate and graduate education. The Board of Higher Education oversees grants for health education and medical scholarships, engineering equipment and math and science education, minority achievement and articulation endeavors and work study programs. Other major issues of the session included school finance reform, pension benefit enhancements, voting privileges for student trustees, and teacher certification. Enhancing Minority Student Achievement is one of the Board of Higher Education's highest priorities.
Many programs exist to improve minority representation in higher education.
Each year the Board publishes information on the representation and academic achievement of minority students in a report to the Governor and Legislature on underrepresented groups. At the end of the fifth year, it is clear that fundamental changes have occurred in Illinois higher education. In September 1992, the Board of Higher Education reviewed the existing policies on health professions education within the context of the healthcare needs of Illinois citizens and the priority, quality, and productivity initiative. The review focused on current healthcare issues, trends, and regional needs to determine if adjustments in the current capacity were needed to reflect the priorities of higher education in Illinois and occupational demand. Further study of the specific policy issues involved in each health field, as well as the broader issues of public health, resulted in new policy recommendations to the Board in May 1993.