BLACKSBURG - Virginia Tech's governing board endorsed the creation of a masters of creative writing program and formation of "clinical faculty" ranks within the university's veterinary college.

Administrators in Tech's English Department plan to seek final approval from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia to launch a three-year master of fine arts program in creative writing at the university. Lucinda Roy, chairwoman of the English department, said they hope to use a $300,000 gift to create writer-in-residence positions to work with local schoolchildren. Roy said they also hope to bring world-renowned writers to campus for mini-residencies lasting three to five days.

The board also approved creation of new ranks of "clinical faculty." Vet school officials requested the new designation as a way to recruit and retain additional highly trained faculty to teach students and work in the college's veterinary hospital. Although nontenured, the position would offer opportunities for professional promotion.

In other news, the board:

Heard an update on a draft policy for hiring couples, a recruiting tool frequently used by universities nationwide. A final report is expected to be complete by August's meeting.

Heard plans to raise faculty salaries. Tech officials said they intend to use university funds to supplement the 3 percent raise authorized by the General Assembly, although they did not specify how the money would be distributed.