IX. New Academic Program Approval
The development of a new academic program in one of the various academic units of the Institute is a major undertaking, requiring commitment of our collective intelligence and resources. Clarity and care must be given to all of the decisions about new academic programs, and the process used must reflect input from a variety of viewpoints and voices. This process has been designed with input from the faculty and its leadership, the Executive Council, and the Office of the Provost.
The process, as summarized below, can be divided into three sequential phases.
1. PHASE I involves the development and presentation of the key concepts for the program and addresses the questions regarding the context and purpose of the proposed program, alignment with mission and values of the Institute, and considers general advantages or concerns that may be inherent with the particular program. This phase concludes with a decision from the provost as to whether or not to proceed with the development of the program at this particular point in time.
2. PHASE II involves the development of a full proposal using already established guidelines. This phase of development involves clarification of the operational aspects of the program, how it will be established, the resources that will be needed for a successful launch of the program, and the presentation of the curriculum, timelines, faculty requirements, leadership needs, and other details required to carry out the program. A preliminary budget is also included in this phase.
3. PHASE III involves the necessary approvals required to launch the program. All new programs are reviewed by the Academic and Student Affairs Committee of the board and the Institute’s board of trustees. Upon approval by the board, the new degree or certificate is considered by the MGH board of trustees. New programs of the Institute are required to be also reviewed and approved by the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education. Finally, most degree programs also need review and approval from our accrediting body, the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
A simple checklist for each of these phases follows. The checklist should be used as a guide for new program development.
Revised June 6, 2012