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UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF GEORGIA
Section Twelve
Darton State College is one of 31 institutions in the University System of Georgia. The
University System of Georgia consists of four research universities, four comprehensive
universities, 10 state universities, and 13 state colleges. (See list on next page.)
The University System of Georgia is a network of colleges governed by an 19-member
constitutional Board of Regents, which has been in operation since 1931. Appointments of
Board members are made by the Governor, subject to confirmation by the State Senate.
Regular terms of Board members are seven years. State appropriations for the University
System are requested by, made to, and allocated by the Board of Regents.
The Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and other officers of the Board of Regents are
elected by the members of the Board. The Chancellor, who is not a Board member, is the
chief executive officer of the Board and the chief administrative officer of the University
System.
Each institution in the University System is governed by the President and faculty under
the general jurisdiction of the Chancellor and the Board of Regents. The policies of the
Board of Regents allow considerable autonomy, and each college is headed by a President
whose election is recommended by the Chancellor and approved by the Board.
The overall programs and services of the University System are offered through three
major components: Instruction, Public Service/Continuing Education, and Research.
Students who receive credit from institutions within the System enjoy easy transfer of
courses, a major advantage for those attending System colleges.
INSTRUCTION consists of programs of study leading to degrees, ranging from the
associate (two-year) level to the doctoral level. Many colleges have certificate programs as
well. The degree programs range from the traditional liberal arts studies and professional
or highly specialized programs to job specific career education.
CONTINUING EDUCATION/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT consists of non-degree
activities, primarily, and special types of college-degree-credit courses. The non-degree
activities include short courses, seminars, conferences, and consultative and advisory
services in many areas of interest.
RESEARCH encompasses scholarly investigations conducted for discovery and
application of knowledge. Most of the research is conducted through the universities;
however, some of it is conducted through several of the senior colleges. The research
investigations cover matters related to the educational objectives of the institutions and to
general societal needs.
