(Boise, ID) – The Idaho State Board of Education today approved three new degree programs and Idaho’s second healthcare-related school, to be located in Moscow. The actions occurred during the second day of the Board’s regular meeting held at Idaho State University in Pocatello.
Two undergraduate programs will be offered by Boise State University, and one graduate-level program will be offered by the University of Idaho, along with the establishment of a new school at the University of Idaho.
The new programs are:
- Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience – Boise State University
- Online Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Service Leadership – Boise State University
- Online Master of Science in Gerontology – University of Idaho
The Board also approved a University of Idaho request to establish a School of Heath and Medical Professions at the University of Idaho. The school will consist of three Departments: Medicine, Clinical Medicine and Nursing. The purpose behind the proposal is to increase healthcare-related instructional opportunities and available healthcare in northern Idaho
Idaho State University currently operates a Division of Health Sciences comprised of the College of Health and the College of Pharmacy. ISU President Robert Wagner pledged to collaborate with the U of I to deliver a Physicians Assistant program in northern Idaho.
The Board also recognized College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) President Dr. Rick Aman, Board Member Dr. David Hill and Executive Director Matt Freeman, all of whom are leaving their positions, effective on June 30, the end of the state fiscal year.
“Dr. Aman is CEI’s first president, and he led the efforts to launch Idaho’s fourth community college in 2017,” State Board President Dr. Linda Clark said. “His outstanding leadership helped make CEI a quick success and I congratulate him on a job well done.”
Dr. Hill was appointed to the Board in July, 2014. He is a retired Deputy Director for Science and Technology at the Idaho National Laboratory. Matt Freeman served the Board office for 14 years, including nine years as Executive Director.
“Dr. Hill and Mr. Freeman both served the State Board Education, and the people of Idaho with distinction,” Board President Clark said. “We will miss Dr. Hill’s expertise and perspective, and Mr. Freeman’s leadership of the Board office and staff. I am honored to have worked with both of them. They have both made significant contributions to public education in Idaho.”
Idaho Governor Brad Little will appoint replacements for both.
The next president of the College of Eastern Idaho will be named by CEI’s Board of Trustees.