| Abstract: |
This report presents information about the Illinois Board of Higher Education and the state of higher education in Illinois. The Illinois Board of Higher Education, a 15-member board, is responsible for planning and coordinating the states system of higher education. The Board has statutory responsibilities for master planning, the budget, program approval, institution approval, grants administration, and information systems. The Board has adopted the Illinois Commitment, a strategic plan that sets forth six goals for higher education in Illinois. The report contains information on the higher education budget for fiscal year 2004, a budget that includes $2.4 billion in state general funds. Details are provided for public universities, community colleges, adult education, and other aspects of the higher education system. Some policy initiatives are highlighted, including the Boards Committee on Affordability and its Faculty Diversity Study. A brief profile of higher education in Illinois is also included. In fall 2002, there were 781,190 students at 187 public and private colleges and universities in Illinois, representing a 3.8% increase over 2001. Details are provided about student characteristics, enrollment, finances, graduates, and programs. (Contains 15 figures and 5 maps.) (SLD) |