UM plans to double grad, doctoral students by 2020

In the next 10 to 12 years, the University of Montana plans to more than double the number of graduate and doctoral students on campus, one UM staff member said.
“This would be an increase of the graduate student population, which includes doctoral students, from about 13 percent to 25 to 30 percent,” said Perry Brown, the associate provost for Graduate Education.

This initiative to increase graduate enrollment was prompted by President Dennison’s State of the University speech at the beginning of the fall semester.

Although plans are in the works to increase enrollment, graduate enrollment dropped from 1,607 in fall 2007 to 1,538 in fall of 2008, according to the Registrar’s office.
Brown said graduate enrollment fluctuates from year to year as faculty members retire and available funding changes for research and teaching assistants.

According to Brown, four avenues are being considered to increase enrollment – creating new master and doctoral programs; finding ways to support current programs; designing certification programs for those in the business community who have an undergraduate degree and want to further their education; and offering special training programs for those who want to pursue graduate non-degree credits.

There is a connection between the vision for increased graduate enrollment and a desire to improve the economy of Western Montana, said Dennison in his speech. “The most recent research studies reveal a direct correlation between graduate enrollments and economic vitality,” he said.

Brown said half of the graduates from UM and MSU with PhDs are staying in Montana, and UM wants to increase that rate by improving the programs on campus. The entrepreneurial and critical analysis skills of those graduating with doctorates are needed in Western Montana, Brown said. 

Citing the economic success of Research Triangle Park near Raleigh, N.C., Brown said three universities in that state came up with a strategy to improve their graduate programs, which brought in industry by having a pool of creative people to employ or to start businesses. Also, businesses grew up around those industries, improving the economic condition of the area.

Several changes have already been put in place to implement the graduate initiative. Beginning this fall after the retirement of Dean David Stroebel, the Graduate School was restructured. Brown was appointed as associate provost to direct gathering strategic information for planning; outreach to businesses; pursuit of revenue streams; and contact with deans, departments, faculty and the UM Foundation.

Chemistry professor Dr. Sandy Ross took on some of the responsibilities of former dean of the graduate school. He was appointed to the part-time position of special assistant to the associate provost. 

“I handle the day-to-day interactions with graduate students, including minority and international students, as well as searching for grants,” said Ross.
After reviewing processes for admission to graduate programs, Brown said he plans to streamline the processes used in the past. 

However, feedback from the campus community is needed for success, according to Brown. 

A discussion forum for students, faculty and staff is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 24 in Room 202 of Rankin Hall.

deborah.tanner@umontana.edu