Academic Program Review

The primary purpose of an academic review is to examine, assess, and strengthen programs.

The review is intended to:

• Evaluate strengths and weaknesses, and thus, determine future priorities
• Develop strategies to build upon strengths and improve deficiencies
• Assist in determining a program's ability to respond to future challenges and opportunities
• Aid in shaping the program's plan for the future

Academic programs not subject to specialized accreditation are required by the PA State System of Higher Education Board of Governor Policy 1986-04-A to conduct a full program review at least every five years.

• Five Year Academic Program Review Calendar 2019-2020
• Board of Governor's Policy 1986-04-A: Program Review
• Review of Academic Programs and Programs in Support of the Student Experience: Procedure/Standard Number 2018-35

The Program Review Should

• Tell the Story of the Program addressing the key points as put forth by the administrative procedure.
• Provide an analysis of the data provided by Institutional Research. Explain what the data means in a narrative format.
• Present the program in the framework of ESU's 2025-2028 Strategic Plan: ESU: Creating Opportunities Through Community, Engagement, & Belonging and State System Strategic Plan.
• Review Compliance to State System Board of Governors Policy 1990-06-A: Academic Degrees. The undergraduate credit and residency requirements were summarized in a Spring 2011 University Meeting Handout.
• Address Program Outcomes using the current State System Performance Indicators as a guide on what to address.

Resources

• 2020 Academic Program Review Guidelines and Policies
• Academic Program Review Criteria 2019-20 Cheat Sheet