Nicholls
State
University Executive Summary
for 2014-15
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OPENING STATEMENT
With over 5,800 undergraduate students, 600 graduate students, 650 employees and a $55 million annual budget,
Nicholls State University realizes its mission of quality teaching, research and service by contributing to the
educational and economic needs of its service region. Nicholls provides 80% of the Bayou Region’s nurses, 80% of
its teachers, and the majority of college graduates in the region. University faculty are actively engaged in regional
research and program enhancement, securing in 2014 over $1 million dollars of awards from the Board of Regents
alone.
Our 2015 W.I.S.E. overarching goals include:
Increase graduates in high-demand disciplines
Increase preparedness of graduates to work in the Bayou Region’s and Louisiana’s industries
Increase partnerships with industry in the Bayou Region
Increase regional research and innovation
Nicholls seeks to become the leader in providing baccalaureate-prepared professionals for Louisiana’s Regional
Labor Market Area (RLMA) four- and five-star energy sector jobs. For over four decades, Nicholls has established a
reputation for educating and providing engineering technologists for the oil and gas industry. The University’s
Department of Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management (PETSM) offers unique educational
opportunities for both traditional students and non-traditional working students by way of the blended face-to-
face instruction, laboratory, and a web-based delivery system designed to accommodate rotational work
schedules. There are no other known programs of this kind in the Gulf Coast region. PETSM has established
articulation agreements with the Louisiana Community Technical College System (LCTCS) and has assumed the role
as leader in continuation from the two year Associate of Science degree to the Bachelor of Science degree.
Nicholls offers the Bachelor of Science Degree in Petroleum Services with concentrations in Exploration and
Production (PSEP) and Safety Technology (PSST). These new concentrations were established in 2010 to allow
students to focus on particular sectors of the industry, and for those ambitious enough, the option of becoming
experts in both exploration and production and safety technology. The concentration areas were created in
response to workforce needs.
Our curriculum is designed so that students can earn the Associate of Science in Petroleum Services (PSAS) or
Safety Technology (STAS) in two years while pursuing the four-year baccalaureate degree in either PSEP or PSST.
The associate level degrees create early employment opportunities for students while continuing their education
in the four year exploration and production or safety technology tracks. Major oil and gas companies like Chevron,
Shell, and BHP Billiton hire associate-level graduates and support their continuation of studies while working on
rotational work schedules. This two-plus-two model provides a seamless transition into the Bachelor of Science
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program. The majority of students will earn a combination of Associate of Science degrees and Bachelor of Science
degrees.
In 2014, the Safety Technology Associate of Science degree was authorized for full delivery through Nicholls
Online, and the Petroleum Services Associate of Science is pending approval for online delivery. The online
degrees create more access to students who are seeking career advancement or career changes to increase
earning capacity, as well as those currently employed in the industry. All programs are accredited by the
Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE).
Our curriculum prepares graduates for key leadership positions within the safety and environmental, drilling and
completions, and production operations segments of the industry. Some are employed in one of many specialized
well services or supply functions critical to supporting petroleum operations. With the “Big Crew Change” (nearly
50% of the experienced workforce retiring in the next 10 years) impacting the industry sustainability, advancing
technology and increased domestic energy production, students are flooding into these programs to cash in on
high paying, high demand industry jobs which are critical to our regional and state economy.
PETSM’s enrollment is rapidly growing and resources to serve this expansion are putting a strain on the system. In
fall 2014, PETSM admitted 162 new students into the program. Of these students, forty-two percent have
graduated from high schools located in Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes-the “gateway to the oil and gas
industry” and the region where the energy industry has made substantial investments.
W.I.S.E. Institutional Contact: Dr. Todd Keller, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs [email protected] 985-448-4148
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WISE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
1. INCREASE INSTRUCTIONAL CAPACITY AND STUDENT ACCESS IN PETROLEUM
ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT (PETSM) CURICULA
2. EXPAND STUDENT ADVISING SERVICES AND IMPLEMENT CAREER MENTORING
TO ADDRESS W.I.S.E. REGIONAL WORKFORCE NEEDS
3. CREATE W.I.S.E. SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Priority 1:
The capacity and access project will renovate and furnish five existing classrooms in Gouaux Hall to address the
immediate infrastructure needs in providing access for students. The planned renovations will nearly double
capacity to accommodate current demand and projected growth for the next three years. Installation of state of
the art instructional technology and video capture equipment will enhance the unique blended learning delivery
system. The future human resourcing challenges will be addressed through continued private and public workforce
partnerships. The project will commence upon receipt of initial distributions from WISE funds. The anticipated
start date for the project is spring 2015.
Priority 2:
The advising and career mentoring project funded by WISE will directly address regional workforce needs by
expanding current student advising to include a specialization in energy- related four- and-five star jobs for the
regional labor market. The University will employ an industry liaison to engage the local employers to establish
and coordinate internships, externships, service learning opportunities, apprenticeships, research opportunities,
and jobs. This project will connect the student to workforce opportunities, mentoring, and job shadowing
services. A W.I.S.E. advisor will guide the student through the two- plus- two degree programs, workforce
education and training opportunities, and partnering programs at the technical and community colleges. The
project will fund two graduate assistants, one undergraduate student, and two specialists in advising and
workforce outreach. Personnel will also provide extension services to the new Cooperative Learning Center for
Texas A&M TEEX –OSHA located at our satellite campus in Houma, LA.
An office suite in Gouaux Hall will be renovated and a dedicated student career resource center with an interactive
career exploration and employment video wall will be provided. The center will solicit regional input in
determining local and regional needs, areas of economic development, and better alignment of institutional
offerings, research, service, and labor market needs. The center will coordinate efforts with existing economic
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development organizations such as South Central Industrial Association (SCIA), South Louisiana Economic Council
(SLEC), and Louisiana Department of Labor’s WORK-IT program.
http://www.nicholls.edu/news/2014/nicholls-signs-agreement-with-the-texas-am-engineering-extension-service-
teex-to-offer-specialized-safety-and-health-training/
Priority 3:
The scholarship project will follow the LMI requirement and will be administered through the University
Scholarship office on campus. Scholarships will be available to students majoring in disciplines that provide
graduates for four- and- five star jobs and STEM related fields of study. We anticipate a tiered scholarship system
that may include: LMI students from the Region III Labor Market; students with associate degrees who are
continuing towards a bachelor degree in a defined RLMA 4- or-5 star job; and faculty mentored students
participating in undergraduate research and service learning projects linked to 4-and-5 start jobs.
Anticipated outcomes include: on-time graduation, increased number of graduates, participation in Nicholls
Research Week, public presentations, and publications. Graduates who are better prepared through the
undergraduate research experience have project management and problem solving skills (i.e. responsibility,
persistence, synthesis, analysis, thoroughness, teamwork, leadership, commitment, patience, perspective-taking
and ethical behavior). W.I.S.E. funding will help leverage energy related company sponsored scholarships.
Emphasis of scholarship awards will be placed on LMI students with needs not met by other funding sources,
thereby closing the gap. Nicholls has identified 32% (1,847) of its undergraduate students as LMI students. Closer
examination revealed 330 students with a gap in financial need.
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GOALS
PROJECTED COMPLETERS
Program/Degree 2012-13
(baseline) 2013-14 (actual)
2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18
Petroleum Services (B.S.)
14 18 25 26 28 35
Petroleum Services (A.S.)
28 34 40 42 43 45
Safety Technology (A.S.)
57 83 95 97 99 100
TOTAL 99 135 160 165 170 180
PROJECTED ENROLLMENTS
Program/Degree 2012-13
(baseline) 2013-14 (actual)
2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18
Petroleum Services (B.S.)
149 243 323 332 339 350
Petroleum Services (A.S.)
46 33 35 36 37 38
Safety Technology (A.S.)
69 40 104 107 109 112
TOTAL 264 316 462 475 485 500
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PARTNERS
Organization Support Provided
Chevron $ 28,000
BHP Billiton $ 20,000
Petrobras America $ 15,000
South Central Industrial Association (SCIA)
$ 5,000
Morgan City Oilman’s Rodeo $ 10,000
American Association of Drilling Engineers (AADE)-Lafayette and New Orleans Chapter
$ 15,000
Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) $ 2,242
Total $ 95,242
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BUDGET
BY OBJECT/INITIATIVE
Category Strategic Priority Funding Source Total
Infrastructure 1 Capital outlay $ 115,000
Infrastructure 1 General Funds $ 140,000
Student Advising Services 2 CDBG $ 121,208
Industry Match 1 Industry $ 95,242
RED Scholarships 3 CDBG $ 100,000
GRAND TOTAL $ 571,450
BY FUNCTION
Category Strategic Priority Funding Source Total
Personnel 2 CDBG $ 85,000
Fringe Benefits 2 CDBG $ 16,500
Supplies (general) 2 CDBG $ 19,708
Classroom Renovations 1 Capital outlay $115,000
Classroom Renovations 1 General Funds $ 91,000
Supplies (Furnishings) 1 General Funds $ 49,000
Supplies (Furnishings) 1 Industry Match $ 36,500
Equipment (Video Wall) 2 Industry Match $ 45,000
Supplies (Counseling Office Furniture)
2 Industry Match $ 8,200
Travel and Outreach 2 Industry Match $ 5,542
Scholarships 3 CDBG $100,000
GRAND TOTAL $571,450
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JUSTIFICATION:
Personnel: $85,000 total request
Outreach Coordinator for industry relations to coordinate efforts with existing economic development
organizations such as South Central Industrial Association (SCIA), South Louisiana Economic Council (SLEC), and
Louisiana Department of Labor’s WORK-IT program as well as mentoring students. The outreach coordinator will
act as a liaison to coordinate internships, externships, service learning opportunities, apprenticeships, research
opportunities, and jobs. @ $35,000
PETSM Advisor (50% split effort) for curricular navigation, synchronizing the course offerings to accommodate the
rotational schedules, and academic guidance@ $20,000
Two graduate students will support the advising and outreach functions as deemed necessary @ $12,000 each =
$24,000
One undergraduate student will assist with office operations @ $6,000
Fringe: $16,500 total request
Outreach Coordinator@ $35,000 X 30% fringe (university fringe rate) = $10,500
PETSM Advisor @ $20,000 X 30% fringe (university fringe rate) = $6,000
Supplies: $113,408
General supplies include printing, STEM Kits, workforce events, career panel discussion events, paper and
promotional materials, research supplies @ $19,708
Furnishings include ergonomics table and chairs for renovated classrooms @ $85,500
Furnishing for office @ $ 8,200
Equipment: $45,000 total requested
Interactive career exploration and employment kiosk (Video Wall) @ $ 45,000
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Travel & Outreach: $5,542 total requested
The funds will be used for regional travel to workforce events, networking and stakeholder engagement.
Classroom Renovations: $206,000 total requested
Five classrooms and one office suite in Goaux Hall to be fully renovated to accommodate current and a three year
projected demand.
Scholarships: $100,000 total requested
Scholarships awards will be based on CDBG rules and provided for one or more of the following: tution, fees,
books. Scholarships may be awared up to two years.
WISE Implementation Plan
Institutional Contact Dr. Al Davis
Nicholls State University [email protected]
FY 2014-15
UL SYSTEM
10/28/2014
Nicholls State University
Implementation Plan
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WISE Implementation Plan
Date: October 28, 2014
System: University of Louisiana System
Institution: Nicholls State University
Contact: Dr. Todd Keller, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs [email protected] 985-448-4148 Description:
The WISE Fund’s stated program goals are to increase graduates in high priority fields, increase research
productivity, and enhance the curriculum and/or student experience in response to industry needs. Each
Louisiana public postsecondary institution allotted funds by the WISE Council is invited to submit an
Implementation Plan outlining how the investment of WISE funds will result in meeting program goals.
Requirements:
Executive Summary:
Appendix A
The Implementation Plan: Proposals should be organized according to targeted program(s) or
department(s). Indicate the department or office and institutional official(s) who will be
responsible for administering the Plan or the specific program expenditures. Please identify the
institutional official(s) by name and position.
WISE Priority 1: Increase Instructional Capacity and Student Access in Petroleum Engineering
Technology and Safety Management (PETSM) Curricula
Responsible Parties:
PETSM Executive Director Michael Gautreaux will lead the project within the
PETSM department. He will work closely with Michael Davis, Assistant Vice
President of Physical Plant and Terry Dupre, Director of Purchasing. The Chief
Financial Officer, Ronald Rodriguez, will be responsible for managing all
expenditures.
Activities/Timeline
See Appendix B for Timeline for Priorities 1 & 2. Appendix C is an architectural
drawing of the entire project. Project will commence in January 2015 and
concluded in accordance with projected timeline in Appendix B. The renovations
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of three classrooms in Gouaux Hall, identified as A, B, and C in Appendix C will be
Phase I of the project. The beginning of Phase II is contingent upon the
completion of the new Culinary Building which is anticipated in May 2015
WISE Priority 2: Expand Student Advising Services and Implement Career Mentoring to
Address W.I.S.E. Regional Workforce Needs
Responsible Parties:
PETSM Executive Director Michael Gautreaux will lead the project within the
PETSM department. He will work closely with Michael Davis, Assistant Vice
President of Physical Plant and Terry Dupre, Director of Purchasing. The Chief
Financial Officer, Ronald Rodriguez, will be responsible for managing all
expenditures. Kristie Goulas, Director of Career Services, will oversee the
administrative function of the center.
Activities/Timeline
See Appendix B for Timeline for Priorities 1 & 2. The administrative functions will
begin in January 2015 and continue thereafter. The construction portion of Phase
II is contingent upon the completion of the new Culinary Building which is
anticipated in May 2015.
WISE Priority 3: Create W.I.S.E. Scholarship Program
Responsible Parties:
The university official overseeing scholarship awarding is Debi Benoit, Director
of the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs. The research component
will be overseen by Dr. John Doucet, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
Activities/Timeline
In year one of funding (Spring 2015), we will distribute $20,000 in the form of performance-based scholarships, up to $2000 maximum, to be applied to recipients’ tuition and fees. In each of the subsequent academic years (Fall 2015-Spring 2016 and Fall 2016-Spring 2017), we will award a total of $40,000 in scholarships, for total scholarships worth $100,000 over three years. Recipients will be obligated to conduct research under the mentorship of a faculty member. The university will track research performance by requiring completion of student timesheets carrying departmental validation and regular progress reporting, as well as final project reporting in each semester of scholarship receipt.
Private Match:
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a. The sum of actions to a specific academic/training program, department, center, or
institute requires a 20% match from a private source. The private match requirement is
provided in R.S. 17:3138.2 (D)(4)(a) (2014) [hyperlink].
W.I.S.E. Match Certification can be found in Appendix D.
b. The management board, or their designee, must certify that a private match has been
guaranteed before funds are withdrawn. (No response required)
Credential-granting Programs: Each program that grants a degree, certificate, or diploma for
which you wish to expend funds, please provide the following:
a. The degree/certificate level, title of program, description, and CIP code associated with
the degree program (should be a designated “high-priority field” [hyperlink to list].)
Nicholls State University is focusing on the programs in Petroleum Technology which is
designated as a high-priority field . http://regents.louisiana.gov/wp-
content/uploads/2014/10/Program-Gaps-for-FY-14-15.xlsx
Degree Level
Title of Program Description CIP Code
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Petroleum Services
The Bachelor’s degree program in Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management combines work experience and academic coursework to prepare students for management positions in the drilling, production, service, and supply segments of the petroleum industry.
15.0903
Associate of Science (A.S.)
Petroleum Services
The Nicholls Associate degree program in Petroleum Services combines work experience and academic coursework to prepare students for management positions in the drilling, production, service and supply segments of the petroleum industry.
15.0903
Associate of Science (A.S.)
Safety Technology
The curriculum is designed to accommodate persons working seven on/seven off so that they may attend classes on their days off as full time students. The curriculum contains a blend of technical and supervisory courses to prepare a person for the more complex technical and middle management positions in the drilling and production operations as well as the highly technical service and supply segment.
15.0903
The associate degree programs are designed as a “two plus two”. “Two plus two” allows students to earn one (or both) of the Associate degrees in either Petroleum Services or Safety Technology. Students can continue for two additional years and earn a Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Services.
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b. If the degree program is not designated as a “high-priority field”, please explain.
N/A
c. The action(s) you wish to take in the plan to meet the WISE Fund goals.
i. If adding/altering courses, indicate the addition/alteration by department and
course number.
N/A
ii. If adding faculty using WISE funds, indicate the number, brief description of the
credentials of faculty to be hired, whether the faculty will be tenure-tracked and
the anticipated costs.
No faculty being hired. The Executive Summary in Appendix A outlines the non-
faculty personnel needs being addressed by the WISE funds. See excerpt below:
Personnel: $85,000 total request
Outreach Coordinator for industry relations to coordinate efforts with
existing economic development organizations such as South Central
Industrial Association (SCIA), South Louisiana Economic Council (SLEC),
and Louisiana Department of Labor’s WORK-IT program as well as
mentoring students. The outreach coordinator will act as a liaison to
coordinate internships, externships, service learning opportunities,
apprenticeships, research opportunities, and jobs. @ $35,000
PETSM Advisor (50% split effort) for curricular navigation, synchronizing
the course offerings to accommodate the rotational schedules, and
academic guidance@ $20,000
Two graduate students will support the advising and outreach functions
as deemed necessary @ $12,000 each = $24,000
One undergraduate student will assist with office operations @ $6,000
Fringe: $16,500 total request
Outreach Coordinator@ $35,000 X 30% fringe (university fringe rate) =
$10,500
PETSM Advisor @ $20,000 X 30% fringe (university fringe rate) = $6,000
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iii. If equipment, renovations, or other capital investment is required, provide a
description.
A complete description of renovations and equipment purchases is outlined in
Appendix A: Executive Summary. Also, Appendix C contains an architectural
depiction of the renovations. See excerpt below from Executive Summary:
Supplies: $113,408
General supplies include printing, STEM Kits, workforce events, career
panel discussion events, paper and promotional materials, research
supplies @ $19,708
Furnishings include ergonomics table and chairs for renovated
classrooms @ $85,500
Furnishing for office @ $ 8,200
Equipment: $45,000 total requested
Interactive career exploration and employment kiosk (Video Wall) @ $
45,000
Travel & Outreach: $5,542 total requested
The funds will be used for regional travel to workforce events,
networking and stakeholder engagement.
Classroom Renovations: $206,000 total requested
Five classrooms and one office suite in Goaux Hall to be fully renovated
to accommodate current and a three year projected demand.
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d. Delivery method of the program (traditional, online, etc.).
The PETSM degree programs are the only known of their kind, uniquely scheduling
courses to accommodate rotational work schedules including 7-days-on, 7-days-off and
the 14-days-on, 14-days-off. Courses are delivered in a hybrid format to accommodate
the unique rotational schedules of the non-traditional students served. The Safety
program is also offered through Nicholls Online in a completely online format.
e. If the institution has attempted to create or expand this program previously, include
reasons for not proceeding.
The Safety Technology Associate of Science program was successfully expanded in
January 2014 into Nicholls Online to be delivered completely online, responding to the
needs of the industry. University of Louisiana System has approved the offering of the
Petroleum Services Associate of Science program in Nicholls Online beginning in January
2015. Approval letter from University of Louisiana System can be found in Appendix E.
f. Five years of enrollment and completer history.
Enrollment
Program Fall 2010 Fall 2011 Fall 2012 Fall 2013 Fall 2014
Petroleum Services (B.S.)
88 94 149 243 323
Petroleum Services (A.S.)
23 31 46 33 35
Safety Technology (A.S.)
44 49 69 40 104
Totals 155 174 264 318 462
Percent Change from 2010
12.3% 70.3% 105.2% 198.1%
Completers
Program 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013 2013-2014
Petroleum Services (B.S.)
15 15 16 14 18
Petroleum Services (A.S.)
12 11 18 28 34
Safety Technology (A.S.)
19 26 32 57 83
Totals 46 52 66 99 135
Percent Change from 2009-2010
13.0% 43.5% 115.2% 193.5%
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g. The expected outcomes from the actions proposed. If increasing the number of
graduates, indicate the estimated number of graduates. If improving curriculum,
provide metrics to demonstrate the improvement.
Expected outcomes, in terms of enrollment and completers, are outlines in Appendix A:
Executive Summary. See Tables Below:
PROJECTED COMPLETERS
Program/Degree 2012-13
(baseline) 2013-14 (actual)
2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18
Petroleum Services (B.S.)
14 18 25 26 28 35
Petroleum Services (A.S.)
28 34 40 42 43 45
Safety Technology (A.S.)
57 83 95 97 99 100
TOTAL 99 135 160 165 170 180
PROJECTED ENROLLMENTS
Program/Degree 2012-13
(baseline) 2013-14 (actual)
2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18
Petroleum Services (B.S.)
149 243 323 332 339 350
Petroleum Services (A.S.)
46 33 35 36 37 38
Safety Technology (A.S.)
69 40 104 107 109 112
TOTAL 264 316 462 475 485 500
Research Productivity: Each program conducting research or proposing to increase research
productivity should include the following:
a. The department, center, or institute at which the research is to be primarily conducted.
b. The action(s) taken in the plan to meet the WISE Fund goals.
i. If adding faculty or research personnel (to include graduate students) using
WISE funds, provide a brief description of the credentials of the person(s) to be
hired.
ii. If equipment, renovations, or other capital investment is required, provide a
description.
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Interactive career exploration and employment kiosk (Video Wall) @ $ 45,000
iii. Anticipated costs.
iv. The expected outcomes from the actions proposed. If the addition of faculty is
also part of the plan to increase graduates, the expected research productivity
outcome need only be listed once.
Nicholls State University is not using WISE funds to directly increase research productivity this
funding period.
Aid Programs: If WISE Funds are to be used for financial aid, graduate assistantships, or
fellowships, please provide the following:
a. The name of the financial assistance program and budget of the program for the prior
three fiscal years.
WISE funds will be used to establish a new scholarship program, with an emphasis on
undergraduate research.
b. The number and amount (a range of amounts is permissible).
Year Number of Students Total Dollars
2014-15 10 – 15 $20,000
2015-16 10 – 15 $40,000
2016-17 10 – 15 $40,000
Scholarships will be awarded up to $2000/semester.
c. The expected outcome consistent with WISE Fund goals.
Participation in undergraduate research and the financial support will increase the
persistence of the student in their degree program, which will be one of the four and
five star job programs. Increases in retention and graduation rates are expected.
Graduates who are better prepared through the undergraduate research experience
have project management and problem solving skills (i.e. responsibility, persistence,
synthesis, analysis, thoroughness, teamwork, leadership, commitment, patience,
perspective-taking and ethical behavior). Mentor assessments will be developed to
measure growth in these areas.
Multiple Years: If any or all of the programs taking action within this report anticipate multiple
years of WISE Funds, then indicate the number of years for investment, the ultimate outcomes,
and anticipated costs. There should be a clear delineation of funding expectations by fiscal year.
Money allocated for a single fiscal year to an institution for an action should be expended by the
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end of the following fiscal year (i.e., 2 fiscal years to spend money allocated at the beginning of
the first fiscal year) or the money may revert back to the system for redistribution.
The renovation project and scholarship plan will extend beyond this fiscal year using the existing
WISE funds, as indicated in Appendix B for the project timeline and the scholarship section of
this report.
The first year of WISE funds will give our programs a much-needed jump-start towards
accommodating the current demand which has far exceeded expectation and strained existing
resources. These funds will help us to accomplish the first phase of a three phase plan
estimated as $2.8 million. Additional years of funding could be used to continue future phases,
doubling instructional space.
Continuation and expansion of the WISE scholarship program would allow the university to
expand its emphasis on undergraduate research. Graduates who are better prepared through
the undergraduate research experience have project management and problem solving skills
(i.e. responsibility, persistence, synthesis, analysis, thoroughness, teamwork, leadership,
commitment, patience, perspective-taking and ethical behavior).
Outcomes:
a. The institution should state its anticipated outcomes based on the sum of its actions for
each academic/training program, department, center, or institute.
b. The outcomes should include the anticipated timeframe of the outcome. If an institution
plans to increase graduates, the institution must provide the timeframe in which those
graduates are expected.
Enrollment in the PETSM program will nearly double (increase of 89.4%) from the 2012-
2013 baseline year by the 2017-18 academic year. (See table above in section g.)
The number of completers will increase by 81.8% by 2017-18. (See table above in section g.)
Through the increase in career advising and mentoring, formal internships will be developed
and students will be place in these by January 2016.
Accreditation & Approvals:
a. For any of the educational or research programs listed in the Implementation Plan, list
any approvals required by the management board, Board of Regents, or accrediting
body to initiate the program.
The Department of Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management degree
offerings are accredited by The Association of Technology, Management, and Applied
Engineering (ATMAE). No part of the W.I.S.E proposal requires the approval of ATMAE.
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The proposed changes will strength our compliance with the accreditation standards, as
far as facilities, career placement and resources, and increased industry support.
b. Estimate costs for any changes related to accreditation. None.
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Appendix A
Nicholls
State
University Executive Summary
for 2014-15
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OPENING STATEMENT
With over 5,800 undergraduate students, 600 graduate students, 650 employees and a $55 million annual budget,
Nicholls State University realizes its mission of quality teaching, research and service by contributing to the
educational and economic needs of its service region. Nicholls provides 80% of the Bayou Region’s nurses, 80% of
its teachers, and the majority of college graduates in the region. University faculty are actively engaged in regional
research and program enhancement, securing in 2014 over $1 million dollars of awards from the Board of Regents
alone.
Our 2015 W.I.S.E. overarching goals include:
Increase graduates in high-demand disciplines
Increase preparedness of graduates to work in the Bayou Region’s and Louisiana’s industries
Increase partnerships with industry in the Bayou Region
Increase regional research and innovation
Nicholls seeks to become the leader in providing baccalaureate-prepared professionals for Louisiana’s Regional
Labor Market Area (RLMA) four- and five-star energy sector jobs. For over four decades, Nicholls has established a
reputation for educating and providing engineering technologists for the oil and gas industry. The University’s
Department of Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management (PETSM) offers unique educational
opportunities for both traditional students and non-traditional working students by way of the blended face-to-
face instruction, laboratory, and a web-based delivery system designed to accommodate rotational work
schedules. There are no other known programs of this kind in the Gulf Coast region. PETSM has established
articulation agreements with the Louisiana Community Technical College System (LCTCS) and has assumed the role
as leader in continuation from the two year Associate of Science degree to the Bachelor of Science degree.
Nicholls offers the Bachelor of Science Degree in Petroleum Services with concentrations in Exploration and
Production (PSEP) and Safety Technology (PSST). These new concentrations were established in 2010 to allow
students to focus on particular sectors of the industry, and for those ambitious enough, the option of becoming
experts in both exploration and production and safety technology. The concentration areas were created in
response to workforce needs.
Our curriculum is designed so that students can earn the Associate of Science in Petroleum Services (PSAS) or
Safety Technology (STAS) in two years while pursuing the four-year baccalaureate degree in either PSEP or PSST.
The associate level degrees create early employment opportunities for students while continuing their education
in the four year exploration and production or safety technology tracks. Major oil and gas companies like Chevron,
Shell, and BHP Billiton hire associate-level graduates and support their continuation of studies while working on
rotational work schedules. This two-plus-two model provides a seamless transition into the Bachelor of Science
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program. The majority of students will earn a combination of Associate of Science degrees and Bachelor of Science
degrees.
In 2014, the Safety Technology Associate of Science degree was authorized for full delivery through Nicholls
Online, and the Petroleum Services Associate of Science is pending approval for online delivery. The online
degrees create more access to students who are seeking career advancement or career changes to increase
earning capacity, as well as those currently employed in the industry. All programs are accredited by the
Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE).
Our curriculum prepares graduates for key leadership positions within the safety and environmental, drilling and
completions, and production operations segments of the industry. Some are employed in one of many specialized
well services or supply functions critical to supporting petroleum operations. With the “Big Crew Change” (nearly
50% of the experienced workforce retiring in the next 10 years) impacting the industry sustainability, advancing
technology and increased domestic energy production, students are flooding into these programs to cash in on
high paying, high demand industry jobs which are critical to our regional and state economy.
PETSM’s enrollment is rapidly growing and resources to serve this expansion are putting a strain on the system. In
fall 2014, PETSM admitted 162 new students into the program. Of these students, forty-two percent have
graduated from high schools located in Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes-the “gateway to the oil and gas
industry” and the region where the energy industry has made substantial investments.
W.I.S.E. Institutional Contact: Dr. Todd Keller, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs [email protected] 985-448-4148
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WISE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
1. INCREASE INSTRUCTIONAL CAPACITY AND STUDENT ACCESS IN PETROLEUM
ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT (PETSM) CURICULA
2. EXPAND STUDENT ADVISING SERVICES AND IMPLEMENT CAREER MENTORING
TO ADDRESS W.I.S.E. REGIONAL WORKFORCE NEEDS
3. CREATE W.I.S.E. SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Priority 1:
The capacity and access project will renovate and furnish five existing classrooms in Gouaux Hall to address the
immediate infrastructure needs in providing access for students. The planned renovations will nearly double
capacity to accommodate current demand and projected growth for the next three years. Installation of state of
the art instructional technology and video capture equipment will enhance the unique blended learning delivery
system. The future human resourcing challenges will be addressed through continued private and public workforce
partnerships. The project will commence upon receipt of initial distributions from WISE funds. The anticipated
start date for the project is spring 2015.
Priority 2:
The advising and career mentoring project funded by WISE will directly address regional workforce needs by
expanding current student advising to include a specialization in energy- related four- and-five star jobs for the
regional labor market. The University will employ an industry liaison to engage the local employers to establish
and coordinate internships, externships, service learning opportunities, apprenticeships, research opportunities,
and jobs. This project will connect the student to workforce opportunities, mentoring, and job shadowing
services. A W.I.S.E. advisor will guide the student through the two- plus- two degree programs, workforce
education and training opportunities, and partnering programs at the technical and community colleges. The
project will fund two graduate assistants, one undergraduate student, and two specialists in advising and
workforce outreach. Personnel will also provide extension services to the new Cooperative Learning Center for
Texas A&M TEEX –OSHA located at our satellite campus in Houma, LA.
An office suite in Gouaux Hall will be renovated and a dedicated student career resource center with an interactive
career exploration and employment video wall will be provided. The center will solicit regional input in
determining local and regional needs, areas of economic development, and better alignment of institutional
offerings, research, service, and labor market needs. The center will coordinate efforts with existing economic
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development organizations such as South Central Industrial Association (SCIA), South Louisiana Economic Council
(SLEC), and Louisiana Department of Labor’s WORK-IT program.
http://www.nicholls.edu/news/2014/nicholls-signs-agreement-with-the-texas-am-engineering-extension-service-
teex-to-offer-specialized-safety-and-health-training/
Priority 3:
The scholarship project will follow the LMI requirement and will be administered through the University
Scholarship office on campus. Scholarships will be available to students majoring in disciplines that provide
graduates for four- and- five star jobs and STEM related fields of study. We anticipate a tiered scholarship system
that may include: LMI students from the Region III Labor Market; students with associate degrees who are
continuing towards a bachelor degree in a defined RLMA 4- or-5 star job; and faculty mentored students
participating in undergraduate research and service learning projects linked to 4-and-5 start jobs.
Anticipated outcomes include: on-time graduation, increased number of graduates, participation in Nicholls
Research Week, public presentations, and publications. Graduates who are better prepared through the
undergraduate research experience have project management and problem solving skills (i.e. responsibility,
persistence, synthesis, analysis, thoroughness, teamwork, leadership, commitment, patience, perspective-taking
and ethical behavior). W.I.S.E. funding will help leverage energy related company sponsored scholarships.
Emphasis of scholarship awards will be placed on LMI students with needs not met by other funding sources,
thereby closing the gap. Nicholls has identified 32% (1,847) of its undergraduate students as LMI students. Closer
examination revealed 330 students with a gap in financial need.
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GOALS
PROJECTED COMPLETERS
Program/Degree 2012-13
(baseline) 2013-14 (actual)
2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18
Petroleum Services (B.S.)
14 18 25 26 28 35
Petroleum Services (A.S.)
28 34 40 42 43 45
Safety Technology (A.S.)
57 83 95 97 99 100
TOTAL 99 135 160 165 170 180
PROJECTED ENROLLMENTS
Program/Degree 2012-13
(baseline) 2013-14 (actual)
2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18
Petroleum Services (B.S.)
149 243 323 332 339 350
Petroleum Services (A.S.)
46 33 35 36 37 38
Safety Technology (A.S.)
69 40 104 107 109 112
TOTAL 264 316 462 475 485 500
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PARTNERS
Organization Support Provided
Chevron $ 28,000
BHP Billiton $ 20,000
Petrobras America $ 15,000
South Central Industrial Association (SCIA)
$ 5,000
Morgan City Oilman’s Rodeo $ 10,000
American Association of Drilling Engineers (AADE)-Lafayette and New Orleans Chapter
$ 15,000
Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) $ 2,242
Total $ 95,242
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BUDGET
BY OBJECT/INITIATIVE
Category Strategic Priority Funding Source Total
Infrastructure 1 Capital outlay $ 115,000
Infrastructure 1 General Funds $ 140,000
Student Advising Services 2 CDBG $ 121,208
Industry Match 1 Industry $ 95,242
RED Scholarships 3 CDBG $ 100,000
GRAND TOTAL $ 571,450
BY FUNCTION
Category Strategic Priority Funding Source Total
Personnel 2 CDBG $ 85,000
Fringe Benefits 2 CDBG $ 16,500
Supplies (general) 2 CDBG $ 19,708
Classroom Renovations 1 Capital outlay $115,000
Classroom Renovations 1 General Funds $ 91,000
Supplies (Furnishings) 1 General Funds $ 49,000
Supplies (Furnishings) 1 Industry Match $ 36,500
Equipment (Video Wall) 2 Industry Match $ 45,000
Supplies (Counseling Office Furniture)
2 Industry Match $ 8,200
Travel and Outreach 2 Industry Match $ 5,542
Scholarships 3 CDBG $100,000
GRAND TOTAL $571,450
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JUSTIFICATION:
Personnel: $85,000 total request
Outreach Coordinator for industry relations to coordinate efforts with existing economic development
organizations such as South Central Industrial Association (SCIA), South Louisiana Economic Council (SLEC), and
Louisiana Department of Labor’s WORK-IT program as well as mentoring students. The outreach coordinator will
act as a liaison to coordinate internships, externships, service learning opportunities, apprenticeships, research
opportunities, and jobs. @ $35,000
PETSM Advisor (50% split effort) for curricular navigation, synchronizing the course offerings to accommodate the
rotational schedules, and academic guidance@ $20,000
Two graduate students will support the advising and outreach functions as deemed necessary @ $12,000 each =
$24,000
One undergraduate student will assist with office operations @ $6,000
Fringe: $16,500 total request
Outreach Coordinator@ $35,000 X 30% fringe (university fringe rate) = $10,500
PETSM Advisor @ $20,000 X 30% fringe (university fringe rate) = $6,000
Supplies: $113,408
General supplies include printing, STEM Kits, workforce events, career panel discussion events, paper and
promotional materials, research supplies @ $19,708
Furnishings include ergonomics table and chairs for renovated classrooms @ $85,500
Furnishing for office @ $ 8,200
Equipment: $45,000 total requested
Interactive career exploration and employment kiosk (Video Wall) @ $ 45,000
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Travel & Outreach: $5,542 total requested
The funds will be used for regional travel to workforce events, networking and stakeholder engagement.
Classroom Renovations: $206,000 total requested
Five classrooms and one office suite in Goaux Hall to be fully renovated to accommodate current and a three year
projected demand.
Scholarships: $100,000 total requested
Scholarships awards will be based on CDBG rules and provided for one or more of the following: tution, fees,
books. Scholarships may be awared up to two years.
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Appendix B
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Timeline for WISE Priorities 1 & 2
Activities 1/15 2/15 3/15 4/15 5/15 6/15 7/15 8/15 9/15 10/15 11/15 12/15 1/16
Step 1: Develop Bid Specifications for PETSM Renovation Project and Bid letting Process
Michael Davis,Terry Dupre
Step 2 Bid Award, Purchasing of equipment, Begin Phase I Renovations. (Priority I)
See Attached Proposed Floor Plan Modifications (Rooms A, B, C)
Michael Davis, Terry Dupre
Step 3-Begin Phase II Renovations. (Priority II)
See Attached Proposed Floor Plan Modifications (Room 409 [red] and PETSM Advising Center [blue])
Michael Davis, Terry Dupre
Step 4-Establishment of Career Center Item 5
Recruit and Hire Personnel
Stakeholder Outreach Activities (Recruiters, Economic Development, Internships)
Michael Gautreaux, Kristie Goulas
Step 5-Installation Item 2:
Bid, Acquire and Install Interactive Career Exploration and Employment Video Wall
Terry Dupre
Step 6-Installation Item 1:
Career Exploration and Employment Center Open House
Michael Gautreaux, Dr. Bruce Murphy
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Appendix C
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Appendix D
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Appendix E
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