Summary of Student University System of Florida Professional & Graduate Degree Excellence Program

The Florida Legislature established the Professional and Graduate Degree Excellence Program to support the efforts of the State University System (SUS) institutions to enhance the quality and excellence of professional and graduate schools in the areas of medicine, law, and business. In addition, the Program is intended to expand the economic impact of state universities. Section 1004.6498, Florida Statutes, requires the Florida Board of Governors to summarize and submit information from the State University System institutions on the Professional and Graduate Degree Excellence Program by March 15 each year. Statute requires that the report include information on program expenditures; first-time pass rates on the United States Medical Licensing Examination; first-time pass rates on the Florida Bar Examination; the percentage of graduates enrolled or employed that reflects the added value of a graduate-level business degree; the advancement in the rankings of medicine, law, and graduate level programs; and the added economic benefit of the universities to the state.