Cameron University is asking the OU Board of Regents on Tuesday to approve two new associate of applied science degrees in Occupational Therapy Assistant and Physical Therapy Assistant. The programs would be built in partnership with Caddo Kiowa Technology Center in Fort Cobb, add 24 new courses, and, according to the university, require no additional funding. If approved by the regents, the request moves to the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education for final approval.
The move comes as demand grows for therapy assistants in southwest Oklahoma. With Fort Sill in our backyard and an aging population across Comanche County, these roles are among the steadier healthcare jobs around, helping patients recover from injuries, surgeries, and strokes. Training local students close to home keeps that workforce in our community instead of sending it elsewhere.
At the same time, Cameron plans to eliminate its associate of arts in Strategic Communication because it didn’t meet minimum productivity standards. The 10 students currently enrolled would have until summer 2028 to complete their degree requirements, giving them a clear path to finish. It’s a notable shift in what the university offers, and it raises a bigger question for our area. What programs do you think Cameron should add next to match the jobs southwest Oklahoma actually needs?
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Local Lawton
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