By Staff
DECISION  Dr. Bev Norment said early interest in the manufacturing technology program did not translate in steady enrollment numbers. Photo by Steve Swogetinsky/The Meridian Star
By Steve Swogetinsky/The Meridian Star
March 5, 2001
The closing of the manufacturing technology program at Mississippi State University-Meridian Campus is an example of another missed opportunity, according to one local ibusinessman.
Dr. Bev R. Norment, dean at MSU-Meridian, cites a lack of students as the reason for the decision.
Hartley Peavey, founder of Peavey Electronics, said this lack of participation is disappointing.
Peavey said better-paying, high-skilled jobs go to people who have the skills.
The manufacturing technology program was conceived in 1997 and started the following year. There were two full-time faculty members dedicated to the bachelor of science degree and the curriculum was written at MSU-Meridian.
The curriculum was based on traditional and emerging manufacturing fundamentals for: 1) a two-year college student who majored in manufacturing to continue his education; or 2) a person in the work force to receive enhanced training in manufacturing management.
In all, 38 students have signed up for the program. Eight have received degrees, and 19 were still enrolled last fall. Norment said those still in the program will be given the opportunity to finish, but no new students will be added.
Norment said at least 35 students per semester were needed to sustain the program.
Norment said this decision had nothing to do with the state's current budget problems. He pointed out that MSU-Meridian will be offering new degrees in education, including two doctoral programs.
Steve Swogetinsky is regional editor of The Meridian Star. E-mail him at sswogetinsky@themeridianstar.com.