The 1993 master plan developed by PEPC calls for Florida to: (1)
increase the utilization of independent schools, colleges and
universities to improve access to a degree; (2) include the independent
sector in attaining one coordinated system of education in the
state and in improving the number of minority teachers; and (3)
improve the use of nonstate resources and expand access in areas
of unmet state need. Little has been asked of the independent
colleges and universities in Florida in return for state funds.
This, however, will change in the near future. Under new legislation
that directs PEPC to develop a statewide master plan for higher
education, the private colleges and universities will also be
asked to submit a strategic plan to be coordinated with the other
sectors of higher education.
Independent colleges and universities have offered to provide
graduate programs at the new Gulf Coast University, thereby saving
the state from this investment. In fact, one representative of
the independent sector stated that the University of Miami could
provide most, if not all, of the graduate programs for the new
university. With state support, the private colleges also make
slots available in high-demand programs to accommodate Florida
students. To send students to the private colleges and universities
to take advantage of these slots, the state pays the difference
between public university tuition and private tuition. In addition,
the state provides a tuition equalization grant for students who
choose to attend a private college or university.
Independent institutions in Florida receive state funds through
students (via the state student aid programs) and through direct
institutional grants designed to improve access and choice, and
to provide specialized educational services. State funding for
private colleges and universities now exceeds $53 million annually.
The independent colleges and universities have a strong presence
in the state Legislature and the Legislature does not hesitate
to use the capacity of the state's private colleges and universities.
The present staff director for the independent colleges and universities
is also chairman of the Senate Higher Education Committee. His
recent appointment to this post caused some concerns about conflict
of interest among higher education leaders in Florida's public
and private colleges and universities.
A recent report from the Business/Higher Education Partnership recommended that the state continue to take advantage of its private colleges and universities. In fact, in an effort to encourage 10,000 more Florida residents to attend private colleges and universities, the report recommended nearly doubling (to about $3,000) the resident access grant for students attending private institutions.
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