New Program Development

Introduction

Durham College supports the development of new and innovative academic programs that advance its strategic priorities, assure teaching and learning quality and respond to industry and student needs. The development of academic programs that address economic and societal needs is a critical factor in the future growth and success of the College.

Purpose

This policy provides a framework for the formal development, submission for review and approval of new academic programs of instruction that assure teaching and learning quality.

Definitions

"Post-secondary programs of instruction" are defined as a group of related courses leading to the awarding of one of the following credentials: Ontario College Certificate, Ontario College Diploma, Ontario College Advanced Diploma, or Ontario College Graduate Certificate. Programs of instruction are approved by the Board of Governors and conform to the levels of learning articulated in the Credentials Framework (Minister's Binding Policy Directive on Framework for Programs of Instruction).

Policy Statements

1. Demographic shifts, new technologies, changes in employment trends, global competition and the development of new student markets necessitate ongoing program assessment and resource redeployment.
2. Proposals to initiate new programs shall be guided by:
   • Alignment with the mission, vision and values of the college, the goals of the college's strategic and academic plan, in accordance to relevant Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities policies and directives, and industry standards or certifications, where applicable.
   • Evidence-based decision-making and a commitment to a consultative and collaborative process, inclusive of all affected stakeholders and representing best practices in adult education.
3. Proposals for developing new programs will be considered within the context of, but not limited to: student demand and impact; community needs; collective agreement provisions; educational pathways; employment trends and employer needs; availability of qualified faculty; teaching and evaluation methodology; space and resource implications; the college's financial viability; program cost and sustainability; program quality assurance and; the College's balance of programs.
4. The decision-making process for developing new programs will be transparent, consultative and evidence-based, with an identified accountability framework for implementation.
5. Any additions to the college's program mix must be approved by the Board of Governors.

A detailed description of the process for implementing this policy is contained in the New Program Development Procedure.

Roles and Responsibilities

The Vice-President, Academic, is responsible for ensuring that the New Program Development policy is fully implemented.

A detailed description of roles and responsibilities relating to this policy is provided in the New Program Development Procedure.

Related Procedures

New Program Development Procedure
Curriculum Development Procedure
Post-secondary Program Review and Renewal Procedure
General Education Procedure

Related Policies and Directives

Minister's Binding Policy Directive-Framework for Programs of Instruction, April, 2005
Minister's Binding Policy Directive-Funding Approval of Programs of Instruction, October 24, 2007

Board Policies:

• IV. Executive Limitations: Programs of Instruction

College Operational Policies:

• ACAD - 102 - Curriculum Development Policy
• ACAD - 103 - General Education Policy
• ACAD - 105 - Program Review and Renewal Policy