NW Missouri Times

Northwest Missouri State University's Board of Regents has approved the addition of two new master's degree programs. These programs are a Master of Public Administration and a Master of Science in Therapeutic Recreation. The decision was made during the board meeting on Thursday, where they also appointed two adjunct faculty members and two police officers.

The newly approved Master of Public Administration program aims to equip students with skills necessary for leadership roles in public service sectors. Dr. Jamie Hooyman, Northwest's Provost, stated that this program would help individuals seeking employment and career advancement in government and nonprofit organizations, addressing the reported need for qualified employees in these areas.

Additionally, the board approved a Master of Science degree in Therapeutic Recreation with emphasis options in recreation management and sport management. This program is designed to align with changes implemented by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC), ensuring that students meet certification requirements as certified therapeutic recreation specialists. Dr. Hooyman noted that more than 50 students are enrolled in this area, highlighting the necessity to offer it at a master's level.

Both master's degree programs will be offered online, with therapeutic recreation starting next fall and public administration launching in spring 2026. No additional resources will be required from the University to implement these programs.

In other developments, regents appointed Hailey Roach and Micah Wolf as University police officers according to Missouri statute requirements. Roach is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in criminology at Northwest and has been working at the University Police Department for data entry and dispatch over the past two years. Wolf resides in Maryville and has experience with the Nodaway County Sheriff's Department; both are expected to graduate from Missouri Western State University's law enforcement academy by June.

The regents also confirmed Robert McCutcheon and Ryan Stanley as adjunct faculty members who will begin teaching online courses this spring.

Northwest's Board of Regents continues its role overseeing resource management at the University while determining general educational and financial policies.