2 master's programs proposed

New master's-level programs are in American studies and finance.
By JoANNE VIVIANO
VINDICATOR EDUCATION WRITER
YOUNGSTOWN -- Youngstown State University officials are developing two new master of arts programs, including one that would be the first of its kind in the nation.
The master of arts in American studies program would provide study in the history and culture of the United States, with hands-on training in public settings such as museums and schools, and in urban planning, community projects and humanities programs.
Dr. Sherry Lee Linkon, professor and coordinator of American studies, said the program would be the only one in the nation to train students in this way. She said she hopes the program will attract students from around the country.
Also being developed by the university is a new master of arts in financial economics program that would allow students to specialize in financial markets study and enhance career opportunities in that field.
Different from others
A written proposal explaining the new American studies degree refers to similar programs at other universities. This degree program would be different, it says, because it offers public humanities, practical training, an interdisciplinary core of courses and a focus on working-class studies and 20th-century urban history.
"In the so-called 'post-industrial' era, many industrial communities are developing museums and public humanities projects that focus on issues of work and class," the proposal says. "We also receive frequent inquiries from ... students around the country asking about opportunities for graduate work in working-class studies. No such program exists, but our proposed M.A. would allow students to complete a focus area and internships that emphasize working-class culture."
The proposal points to the national leadership of YSU's Center for Working Class Studies and various museums within walking distance of campus. It also says YSU is exploring the possibility of entering into a partnership with the Ohio Historical Society to help manage the Youngstown Historical Center for Industry and Labor.
A survey showed that 32 percent of the 142 YSU students asked said they would "probably" or "almost certainly" enroll in such a program, the proposal says. Planners expect to reach enrollment of seven to 10 full-time students and 12 to 20 part-time students within three years.
The program would pay for itself with an enrollment of seven full-time and nine part-time students, the proposal says.
Other programs
Administrators have also made the following program changes:
UA new bachelor of science in business administration degree, in management information systems.
UA revised bachelor of science in applied science degree, in information technology.
UA new associate of applied science degree, in computer networking.
UA new power plant technology option within the associate of technical study degree, in the electric utility technology program.
UA new telecommunications engineering option in the associate of applied science in electrical engineering technology program.