The purpose of the academic program proposal process is to ensure that when Emerson College begins a new academic program it has fully considered all of the aspects that will make that program successful. Additionally, this proposal process allows the College to assess how new programs are aligned with the current strategic plan and with the general direction of the College’s academic mission. Lastly, comprehensive vetting of all proposals from across offices allows for greater support.
All new undergraduate majors and graduate master’s programs go through a 2-step process: the “Exploratory Stage” and the “Proposal Stage.”
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Step 1: Exploratory Stage
The academic program proposal process ensures that new programs at Emerson College are well-considered and poised for success. It aligns new initiatives with the college's strategic plan and academic mission, and comprehensive vetting across offices provides greater support.
All new undergraduate majors and graduate master’s programs follow a two-step process: the "Exploratory Stage" and the "Proposal Stage."
Faculty proposing a new degree should first meet with their Department Chair, School Dean, and Graduate Dean (if applicable) to discuss their preliminary ideas. They must also inform the Associate Provost for Academic Programs. In this meeting, faculty should describe the program, its purpose, its alignment with college goals, and note any potential duplication of or collaboration with existing programs.
Once verbal approval is granted by the Chair and Deans, faculty can move to the next step. To guide them in filling out the proposal information, they should use the Memo on New Program Development.
Step 2: Proposal Stage
During the proposal stage, faculty engage in extensive discussions and planning with stakeholders in their department, school, and across campus. Key offices involved include the Provost's Office, the Office of Academic Strategy and Analytics, and the Office of Academic Assessment. After this process is complete, the final draft of the new program proposal is submitted to the appropriate committees and administrative leaders for approval.
Basic Program Information
- School:
- Department:
- Proposed Program Title:
- Degree Level/Type:
- Official Emphasis Areas (if applicable):
- Program Modality:
- Online component (if applicable):
- Program CIP Code:
- Expected Implementation Date:
- Expected Date of First Graduation:
- Proposal Author(s):
- Individual(s) responsible for success of the program (e.g. chair, dean):
Planning & Resources
Description & Purpose
Provide a short description (no more than two pages), including the program's concept evolution, major academic components, target market, and its goals and objectives.
Alignment with Goals
Describe how the program supports and aligns with department, school, and college goals, as well as the College’s strategic plan.
Potential Duplication and/or Collaboration
If a similar program already exists at the College, describe the potential duplication, the rationale for proposing a new program, and any efforts made to collaborate. Note if any existing programs will be combined, made inactive, or deleted. This section must be completed in collaboration with the Associate Provost for Academic Programs.
Student Demand
Summarize student demand by referencing similar programs at peer institutions, student surveys, and other data. Provide enrollment estimates for the first five years, including new students and total program enrollment. This section must be completed with the Office of Academic Strategy and Analytics.
Marketing Strategy
Provide a summary of existing discussions regarding how the college will attract new students.
Costs
Itemize all costs associated with the program, including new resources (space, equipment, library resources, etc.). Detail any additional faculty or staff positions required. For online programs, specify whether it uses a course lead model or if individual faculty retain intellectual property, and what these costs will be. Indicate if expenses are one-time or recurring.
Faculty
List faculty with the expertise to deliver the program. Describe the number and type of new faculty positions needed, including required expertise and any special requirements for teaching assignments. Describe expectations for faculty involvement, such as professional activities and teaching innovation.
For Hybrid & Online Programs (if applicable)
Provide evidence that the academic unit has considered the unique nature of online programs, such as prior experience, faculty training, and planned work with college resources.
Curriculum and Career Information
Student Learning Outcomes
List the program's student learning outcomes, and describe the assessment process. A curricular map can be included. All program-level outcomes must align with the College’s learning outcomes. This section must be completed with the Office of Academic Assessment.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Describe the set and sequence of courses and the rationale for this structure. Include curriculum details, highlighting any new courses or revisions to existing ones.
Student Preparation for Program
Describe the recommended preparation for incoming students and any special admissions procedures or qualifications required.
Student Success
Describe the specific ways the program plans to support students, such as mentoring, events, and other resources.
Career Outcomes
Describe the careers for which the program will prepare students. Consider key qualities and competencies employers seek and note how they align with the proposed curriculum. This section must be completed with the Career Development Center.
Approvals for a new major or masters
Note: If the program is a collaboration beyond one area, then approval from all relevant curriculum committees, chairs, and deans is required.