c. Closure of Programs
Programs may be discontinued only following careful review and consultation among faculty, administration, and institutional governance bodies.
Program viability shall be evaluated based on factors including:
- Academic quality;
- Student outcomes;
- Enrollment trends;
- Workforce and market demand;
- Financial sustainability;
- Accreditation considerations; and
- Alignment with institutional mission and strategy.
If the provost determines that the viability of a program may be in jeopardy, the provost may appoint an ad hoc review committee or initiate another formal review process.
For program closures being suggested by that program's academic unit leader, closure of that program must first be reviewed by the appropriate school dean. Deans considering a program closure in their school are required to bring their suggestion to the Office of the Provost for full review and consideration.
Recommendations from the Provost regarding program closure shall be submitted to the Board of Trustees for final approval.
In the event of program closure:
- Students shall be provided with an appropriate teach-out or completion plan, developed by program faculty in coordination with the Office of the Provost;
- Required regulatory and accreditation notifications shall be completed;
- The director, faculty, and students in a program that is to be closed will be notified at least one year ahead of the anticipated date for closure, unless financial exigency applies.
- The University shall make reasonable efforts to support affected faculty and staff consistent with institutional needs and applicable policies. Whenever possible and at the discretion of the University, program faculty, staff, and administrators will be reassigned and retained for the duration of their appointment period.