JEFFERSON CITY • Gov. Jay Nixon likes a fledgling program at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg so much that he wants to offer it statewide.

The governor announced today that he plans to offer $10 million in grants to public colleges and universities that develop accelerated, three-year tracks for some undergraduate degrees.

The "Innovation Campus Grants" would help students pay for targeted college classes and expenses, starting during their high school years. They could get their degrees "faster and cheaper" and move into high-demand fields, the governor said.

The money would come from federal community development block grant funds, part of the Department of Economic Development's budget. While the budget would need legislative approval, use of the block grant is up to the department.

Nixon announced the proposal during his remarks to journalists at the Governor's Mansion for an annual Missouri Press Association event. He said he hopes criteria for the grants will be developed by March 1, with grants to be awarded by July 1.

Nixon said he also expects support from corporate donors. Apprenticeships would be part of the college curriculum, helping students gain practical skills.

Nixon said the program is modeled on one designed by the University of Central Missouri, Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City and the Lee's Summit R-VII School District.

Nixon first mentioned the idea during his "State of the State" speech in January, saying the new model "has the potential to transform how we educate students."