b. Program Modification
Modifications to existing academic programs require institutional review and approval to ensure continued academic quality, operational readiness, and compliance with accreditation and regulatory obligations.
A program modification refers to a change to an existing academic program that alters its structure, delivery, learning outcomes, resource requirements, or operational impact.
Program modifications may include, but are not limited to:
- New concentrations, tracks, or certificates;
- Changes in delivery modality;
- Significant curriculum or credit hour revisions;
- Changes to program learning outcomes;
- Program name changes;
- Substantive changes to admissions requirements;
- Changes in target audience or credential level; and
- New instructional locations or delivery sites.
Any questions regarding program modifications should be directed to the Associate Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students and the Project Manager for Academic Affairs.
I. Review and Approval Process
Prior to submission to the Office of the Provost, proposed program modifications must be reviewed and endorsed by the appropriate academic unit leader and dean.
The proposing faculty lead shall submit a Program Modification Request Form to the Associate Provost or designee. Program modifications should be submitted at least 2 semesters in advance of the desired implementation date. Those requiring accreditation or regulatory action should add an additional 12 to 18 months to this timeline.
Program modification proposals should address:
- The rationale for the proposed modification;
- Alignment with institutional mission and strategic priorities;
- Impact on students, faculty, and operations;
- Resource implications;
- Accreditation and regulatory considerations;
- Market or workforce need, where applicable; and
- Implementation timeline and operational readiness.
The Associate Provost shall conduct an initial review and may consult with relevant institutional stakeholders, including but not limited to:
- Admissions;
- Enrollment Marketing;
- Finance;
- Registrar;
- Bursar;
- Financial Aid;
- Learning Experience Design and Information Technology;
- Other operational offices as appropriate.
The Associate Provost may refer the proposal to the New Initiatives Committee (NIC).
Program modifications requiring new or revised courses must undergo review and approval through the Course and Curriculum Review Committee (CCRC).
Following review of the proposal, the Associate Provost shall recommend the approval or rejection of the proposed modification to the provost. The provost or designee shall make final determinations regarding approval of program modifications unless additional institutional governance approvals are required.
Program modifications generally do not require Board of Trustees approval unless determined otherwise by the provost or required by institutional governance processes, accreditation standards, or regulatory authorities.
II. External Reporting and Accreditation
The Office of the Provost shall determine whether a proposed program modification requires notification to or approval from:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE);
- State regulatory agencies;
- Programmatic accreditors; or
- Other external entities.
Programs may not implement modifications requiring external approval until such approvals have been obtained.