Curriculum Approval and Modifications

Proposals for new programmes are put forward by faculty and undergo a two-step process for approval of the proposal.

Proposals are considered by the Academic Planning and Portfolio Development Group (PDG) and if approved are then considered by the Academic Quality Approval Group (AQAG).  Once the proposal is approved, a decision is communicated to faculty on the process for approval of the programme.

Depending on the nature of the proposal, the approval of curriculum will be risk-based enabling low-risk approvals (reconfiguration of existing provision, new provision at an established partner etc.) to undergo a robust yet expedited process. Development and approval of new curriculum areas will require an Approval Event to be scheduled where an expert panel will consider all aspects of curriculum, proposed delivery and resources.

Except for programmes that have a periodic review period mandated by a Professional Statutory Regulatory Body (PSRB) and those programmes identified as requiring redesign by the CAQE process, programmes due for reapproval may have their period of approval extended. Programmes that are performing well and have good student outcomes and income generation should have an extended period of approval where the data justifies this. CAQE data will also be used to identify programmes that may need early redesign or curriculum modifications, thereby reducing the risk of waiting until revalidations for curriculum enhancement.

It is important to note that there will always be circumstances that may necessitate the redesign and reapproval of an otherwise high performing programme. Changes in the market, PSRB requirements, new funding models and modes of delivery are all examples of potential drivers for curriculum redesign and reapproval. There will be no prohibition against reapproval and course redesign in these circumstances.