F10: Roles and Functions of UNM Branch Community Colleges

Approved by: Faculty Senate
Effective: November 28, 2017
Responsible FS Committee: Policy Committee
Office Responsible for Administration: Office of the Provost

Policy Rationale

Branch community colleges play important roles and functions within the University of New Mexico (UNM) system by responding to the unique needs of their communities. This Policy document describes authorized branch community college roles and functions.

Policy Statement

As provided by New Mexico Statute (21-14-1), UNM has established branch community colleges to serve the citizens of New Mexico more fully and to provide the highest quality of education throughout the state for students in different locations pursuing postsecondary education. Branch community colleges respond specifically to the unique needs and multicultural background of the citizens in their respective communities by offering Associate Degree programs (transfer programs that prepare students for upper division entry into colleges and universities), certificates (career technical education pathways), workforce credential preparation, and community education programs.

Branch community colleges utilize resources in the community and therefore also function as an integral part of the community. The branch community colleges of UNM are considered fully integrated component colleges, and they are committed to serving the needs of their respective communities in the manner of a comprehensive community college, offering a variety of academic, career, and community service programs. The branch community colleges commit themselves to protect the quality and integrity of all academic curricula.

Applicability

All UNM academic faculty, staff, and administrators.

Definitions

No specific definitions are required for the Policy Statement.

Who should read this policy

• Faculty
• Department chairs, academic deans, and other academic administrators and executives.

Related Documents

UNM Regents’ Policy Manual

• Policy 2.14 “Branch Colleges and Off-Campus Education Centers”

New Mexico Statute

• NMSA Chapter 21, Article 14, 21-14-1

Contacts

Direct any questions about this policy to the Office of the Provost or Executive Vice President for Health Sciences.

Procedures

No specific procedures required at this time.

History

• September 8, 2022 - Updated title of Executive Vice President for Health Sciences, per Faculty Handbook A53 procedures Information item in Faculty Handbook.