MSU extended campus seeking new space
PADUCAH, Ky. (AP) - Murray State University's extended campus program in Paducah has grown steadily since its inception in 1998 and now there's a search for additional space.
When Brian Van Horn became director of the extended campus program, there was plenty of space for the classes offered at the Crisp Center.
Now, the center is bursting with 1,005 students who enrolled in 78 classes last fall. Most students are older and returning to college to complete degrees to pursue a new career.
Students can take junior and senior level courses to complete requirements for 12 degrees without having to travel to the main campus in Murray. They also can take courses in eight masters degree programs.
“The growth has been beyond expectation,” Van Horn told The Paducah Sun. “The challenge we face now is finding the space we need to increase the demand for more programs.”
A task force recently agreed on a preliminary recommendation that the university build a new center on the campus of West Kentucky Community and Technical College.
MSU president Randy Dunn said he plans to present the option to the Paducah Junior College board, owner of the land that the West Kentucky Community and Technical College occupies.
Paducah Junior College Board Chairman Ken Wheeler said the panel recently adopted a plan that includes a building devoted to junior, senior and graduate level courses. The plan does not specify whether the building will be devoted to one university or made available to several universities, he said.
The MSU task force studied the multi-university option but opted for a building devoted totally to Murray.
“The issue of improving educational opportunities is high on our plate,” Wheeler said. “At the end of the day, we want to do what is best for the students and what will help the community grow.”
Story created May 25, 2008 - 22:03:40 EDT.
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