Guidelines for Creation of New Major, Minor, or Concentration
These guidelines are an overview of the content and format for proposals for the creation of new
majors, minors, or concentrations. Most changes of this type must be reviewed by the Curriculum
Committee, the Faculty and, in some cases, by the Board of Trustees. As a result this document should
be prepared in consultation with the Dean of Academic Programs and/or the Provost.
NATURE OF THE REQUEST
1. Indicate the title of the new major, minor or concentration.
OBJECTIVES OF THE PROPOSED PROGRAM
1. Describe the general purpose of this program and list program objectives and learning
outcomes.
RATIONALE AND NEED FOR THE PROGRAM
1. Explain the rational for this program. Include an explanation of how the major, minor, or
concentration supports the liberal arts mission of the College.
2. Cite the benefits for students, the institution, and the region or state, of initiating this
program.
3. State the specific local, state, or national needs for individuals educated by the proposed
program. Describe job opportunities that are available to persons who complete the program.
Provide supporting data.
4. Indicate any licensure or certification requirements for which this program will prepare
students.
5. Describe the role of consultants in the development of the proposed program.
6. Provide evidence of student interest in the program, as well as projections of enrollment for
each of the first three years of the program.
7. List academic programs similar to the one proposed offered at nearby public, private or
proprietary institutions.
8. Explain how this program is different from that offered by nearby institutions.
ACADEMIC CONTROL
1. Describe the administrative structure for the program, including the division that will bear
primary responsibility for the program.
2. Indicate any cooperative arrangements with other institutions or organizations that will be
used to offer this program. Specify the exact nature of such arrangements and attach any
formal agreements that have been developed.
3. As appropriate, specify the articulation arrangements that will be in effect for the program.
Attach documentation for such arrangements, if any.
CURRICULUM
1. Describe the program as it would appear in the catalog.
2. List the courses (title, number, semester hour, catalog description) that would constitute the
requirements and other components of the proposed program. Indicate which courses are
currently offered and which will be new. Provide a suggested term-by-term curriculum.
3. Describe how program objectives/learning outcomes will be assessed.
STAFFING REQUIREMENTS
1. Indicate how the proposed program will be staffed.