The Kansas Board of Regents on Thursday approved a new degree program at Kansas University and approved an expansion to the on-campus student recreation center.

KU proposed offering a doctorate in bioengineering because of a perception that the school was “not taking advantage of substantial interest” in bioengineering. The program’s goals include training students to “apply basic sciences to medical and biological problems, using engineering principles.” The program will begin during the next academic year, and an estimated 15 full-time or part-time students will be enrolled in the program within three years.

Also, the regents adopted a resolution authorizing the issuance of up to $6.2 million in bonds to build and equip a planned addition to KU’s Student Recreation and Fitness Center. The project will include an expanded gymnasium with two basketball courts, a track extension, and a multipurpose area with two racquetball courts and a martial arts room.

The bonds will be paid through student fees.