Academic Program Review

The Wilkes University Assessment Committee (UAC) will guide each new academic program to set measurable goals for student learning (Student Learning Outcomes) for each approved degree and certificate program. The UAC will also encourage these programs to assess those goals, and to use the assessment findings to improve teaching, learning and the curriculum.

The expected student learning outcomes (SLOs) will be accessible to current and prospective students.

Academic Assessment Policy

New programs will submit an initial assessment plan with their SLOs for review by the University Assessment Committee in conjunction their Curriculum Committee Proposal. The University Assessment Committee may provide feedback on the proposed assessment plan.

Once the initial assessment plan and SLOs are developed, programs will be required to demonstrate regular, systematic review and revision of their SLOs and associated assessment plans before entering the University Academic Program Review Cycle upon one of the following:

• After a sufficient number of program graduates, as agreed upon by the program and the University Assessment Committee.
• After a specified number of years after curriculum approval.
  • New Undergraduate Programs: 4 years
  • New Graduate Programs: 2 years

Review Schedule

The multi-year academic program review schedule below provides an overview for what type of assessment or program review report (bridge assessment or five-year program review process) is slated to be conducted by each program for the reference period/year.

For instance, reporting based on assessments from academic year 2023-2024 are due by Aug. 1 following completion of that year.

• Academic Program Review Schedule (.pdf)

Review Types

Bridge Assessment Reporting

For programs not yet aboard the five-year review process, this provides a vehicle to report on student learning at the program level for the reference year.

• Bridge Assessment Reporting Process Overview (.pdf)

Five-Year Program Review Process

This is a review process that begins with a year dedicated to curriculum mapping and assessment planning (Year 1).  In years two through five, faculty report on student learning at the program level following the assessment plan created in the first year. The fifth and final year also includes a more in-depth component, reflecting on indicators of program viability and resources.

• Process Overview (Year 1) (.pdf)
• Process Overview (Years 2 - 4) (.pdf)
• Process Overview (Year 5)
  • Year 5 Overview will be posted soon.