The Self-Study process allows academic units the opportunity to review key aspects identified in SB 37 to ensure the minors and certificates uphold academic quality, demonstrate workforce relevance, meet enrollment and graduation standards, and align with the university's strategic priorities and resource allocation.
To Begin the Self-Study Process
The chair/director of the academic unit typically appoints a chair for the self-study process. The name of the chair of the self-study process is then submitted to the dean and the assistant vice provost for Program Accreditation and Assessment. Subsequently, the chair/director of the academic unit appoints additional faculty (typically including program coordinators) and staff to assist in conducting the self-study. After receiving dean's approval, these appointees typically form the Self-Study Committee.
The Self-Study Committee meets to determine a plan for engaging in the self-study process and completing the required Self-Study Report. Some committees may elect to meet on a regular basis while others may opt to gather periodically to review work completed by members or subgroups. Despite the approach taken, it is expected that the committee will collectively discuss the strengths, shortcoming, and future directions of the academic unit and each program.
Drafting the Self-Study Report
The Self-Study Report shall be a concise document that adheres to the Self-Study Guidelines outlined in the attached link. The report provides an understandable, clear, and succinct summary of the items addressed. Supporting data and details may be provided in attachments. The report and attachments must be submitted in an electronic format such as in document files. All files must be clearly organized and easily accessible.
The chair of the self-study will work with the Program Accreditation and Assessment team to gather data from Data, Analytics & Institutional Research and the Office of Curriculum and Academic Programs. The assistant vice provost for Program Accreditation and Assessment will provide guidance and answer questions during the program review process.
Routing and Timing of the Self-Study Report
The Self-Study Report will be vetted among faculty members in the academic unit.
By April 1, the chair/director will forward the completed Self-Study Report to the college dean. The dean will review the report and provide feedback to the chair/director. By May 1, the chair/director will have made any necessary edits to the report and will forward an electronic copy to the assistant vice provost for Program Accreditation and Assessment for review and approval. The assistant vice provost for Program Accreditation and Assessment will submit the report to the Provost and Vice Provost for Academic Innovation by August 1. Then Phase 2 will begin, with a review conducted by the advisory committee.