USM and SMTC are neighbors. They share a few of the same majors, but offer two distinct styles of education. Each system caters to a student seeking out a particular learning experience.
University of Maine System Chancellor Joseph Westphal is percolating a plan that might combine Maine’s higher education systems into one board of trustees. If this were implemented, USM and Southern Maine Technical College (SMTC) would be governed under one board of trustees.
The idea of combining higher education in Maine was proposed in 1986, said John Diamond, executive director of external affairs to the chancellor.
Diamond said if the change occurs, the board would decide where the money is directed to meet the overall education needs of the state.
“The pros and cons have not been pursued, the Chancellor feels it may be time to look at the process again,” he said.
USM and SMTC already work together meeting the community’s educational needs. They belong to the Greater Portland Alliance of Schools and Colleges, which grants students the option of taking up to two classes per year at one of the area colleges.
This semester a group of eight or 10 SMTC students takes classes at USM, said Steve Rand, registrar.
As a sophomore at USM, criminology major Katharine Waite began taking classes at SMTC in criminal investigation. Waite, now a senior, is taking her fifth class at SMTC.
Waite has become acquainted with both learning environments, which in her eyes are very distinct.
“At SMTC the classes are more of a test environment, while USM does a lot of
projects you work on throughout the semester,” she says.
When in a USM classroom, Waite learns criminology theories. She later incorporates the theories to support her practical experiences in the SMTC classroom.
“[SMTC] seems to deal with reality and is about speakers and real life,” Waite said. “I learn about how I would do the job.”
Waite is happy to incorporate both environments into her learning. All of the classes fuse together to help Waite accomplish her education goals.
But Waite considers the potential merger announced by Chancellor Westphal an obstacle. Students who attend SMTC are not ready for a merging, she said.
“I think that would be kind of scary for students who aren’t ready for a full four-year university. The enrollment of tech schools would go down.”
Both schools arrange a working partnership that complements each other despite the different missions.
Marianne Rodgers, chair and associate professor of the nursing department said a merge has merit but would be difficult since each school focuses on different aspects of nursing. SMTC offers a two-year nursing program, while USM begins with general education and then nursing requirements.
Many registered nurses who get their associate’s at SMTC come to USM to get a bachelor’s of science said Rodgers. Rodgers said the biggest issue would be how the resources were allocated and which programs would grow.
President Pattenaude did not want to speculate on the idea announced by the chancellor.
“There will be a great deal of discussion in the near future,” Pattenaude said.
“SMTC looks toward providing quality access to higher education and [to]work with populations who want to get a two year degree,” said James O. Ortiz, president of SMTC.
Some students who finish at SMTC continue their education at USM. If there is one governing board it would dilute the educational experience for both entities, Ortiz said.
“The possible realignment of the University of Maine System might opt for technology schools to turn into community colleges,” Diamond said.
Two-year programs might turn into four-year programs, creating a smooth transition for the student, Diamond said.
Ortiz said in the future, SMTC plans to develop into a community college. It will continue to emphasize a supporting education in preparation for careers. After accomplishing an associate’s degree, a bachelor’s degree might be suitable for a future career.
“We want to keep increasing the number of degrees in Maine,” Ortiz said.