Pennsylvania higher education officials are heading back to the negotiating table with the union representing state university faculty.
 
The two sides will get together today for the first discussions since early last month.
 
Members of the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties have been working without a contract for about 18 months.
 
Bargaining has stalled over issues including pay for part-time instructors, health care benefits and compensation for online education. The union has authorized its leadership to call a strike.
 
Officials at the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education say they need to control costs during tight economic times.
 
The system serves about 115,000 students on 14 campuses across the state.