Program Review Overview
Program review is one mechanism by which Western University of Health Sciences routinely evaluates degree and co-curricular programs and associated services to ensure they reflect the standards for quality that are embedded in our mission and values. This evidence-based process engages the faculty, administration, staff, students, and community and professional constituents with the intention facilitating a number of activities and goals to:
- assist programs in developing or improving appropriate means for assessing student learning outcomes;
- better align department, college, and institutional goals and plans;
- assist in making curricular and other changes to improve program and student learning outcomes;
- identify potential cross-program collaborations;
- inform the university’s overall decision-making, strategic planning, and budgeting processes.
- integrate professional and specialized accreditation reviews with the university’s oversight of and planning for its programs;
- conform to WASC standards for accreditation and expectations for a satisfactory program review process.
- conform to federal guidelines for institutions of higher education.
WesternU’s program review process consists of the following six milestones:
|
Milestone |
Activities |
|
|
1 |
Planning and Preparation |
Kickoff meeting to establish timelines, roles and responsibilities. |
|
2 |
Research |
Standard data and reports from service units. Additional research planned as needed. |
|
3 |
Self-Study |
Self-study report developed. Formative feedback on draft reports. Involvement of cross-section of stakeholders. |
|
4 |
External Review |
External site visit and team report |
|
5 |
Internal Review |
Visit results reviewed by Academic Affairs. Development of action plan to address goals set by review. |
|
6 |
Annual Follow-Up |
Joint review by program administration and Academic Affairs. Update of action plan recorded. |
Academic Program Review at a Glance
Co-Curricular Program Review at a Glance
