Introduction to Program Catalog Copy
Catalogs are an authoritative record between a student and the University. The catalog serves as a type of contract between the University and the student as to the content of their curriculum, requirements for completing a program, as well as relevant academic regulations.
The information in the catalog is a valuable resource for a variety of audiences. For prospective students, it provides a comprehensive overview of the academic program, admissions requirements, and general education requirements, helping them make informed decisions about their future studies. Students who are exploring potential majors can use the catalog to understand the specific requirements, course offerings, and career opportunities associated with different fields of study, allowing them to align their interests and career goals with the appropriate academic path. Additionally, for those considering changing their major, the catalog offers detailed information on the process, prerequisites, and any potential impact on their academic progress, ensuring they can make a well-informed transitions. In sum, the catalog serves as an essential guide for navigating the academic landscape and making strategic educational choices. Archived Catalog copies also help employers, certification agencies, and others verify past program requirements.
When developing catalog copy for programs, faculty should consult the document Developing Catalog Copy: A Guide, located in the Academic Affairs Governance Documents Library. This covers topics including the difference between catalog copy and handbooks, the use of AI, writing style, and wider contextual information.
The following sections are an abbreviated version of information found in Developing Catalog Copy: A Guide.
Catalog Copy Submission Guidelines and Mandatory Components
The Process
CourseLeaf CAT is the online platform now used for developing the University catalog. Submitting information to CourseLeaf CAT involves entering or updating program, course, or policy details within the University’s internal catalog management system. This platform is used to draft, review, and approve content before publication. Once approved and published, the information entered in CourseLeaf CAT becomes visible in the University Catalog, which serves as the official, public-facing record of academic programs and requirements for students and other stakeholders. In short, CourseLeaf CAT is the editing and approval tool, while the University Catalog is the finalized, public presentation of that information.
In CourseLeaf CAT, each program is organized with the name of the program as a title with the degree type in parentheses, e.g., Computer Engineering (BS). Links at the top and the left menu indicate the hierarchical position of the program in the catalog, e.g., Home › Undergraduate › College of Engineering › Computer Engineering (BS).
The following tabs appear below the title of the degree:
- Overview (appears for all programs and is the landing page when clicking into a program)
- Requirements (appears for all programs)
- Program learning objectives (appears for all programs beginning with the AY26/27 Catalog)
- Related programs (appears when there are directly related programs, including accelerated options to graduate programs from undergraduate programs)
The information in the next section is organized into the tabs that appear for each program in CourseLeaf CAT.
Mandatory Catalog Components
The sections below detail information that must be provided for all programs, and additional information relevant only to certain programs. Example texts are provided for a fictitious BS in Underwater Basketweaving degree, for illustrative purposes.
Introductory Text
The introductory (i.e., program overview) text is shown right below the program’s name in the overview tab and does not need an additional title. Start with a simple, easy-to-understand introduction to the program so that someone who doesn’t know anything about it can quickly understand what it’s about. Important details should come after this opening paragraph. Write clearly and keep in mind that this description will be shared with the CT Office of Higher Education and ultimately published on a national database of credentials.
The introductory text must meet the following criteria:
- Clearly describe the program in student-friendly terms that are easily understood by students and their families.
- Introduce the field of study, especially if it is unfamiliar to new students or not commonly taught in high schools; highlight unique focus areas of UConn’s program and explain why the subject may be of interest.
- E.g., “Anthropology studies human beings of all times and places. It examines human biological, cultural and social similarities and differences, and tries to explain them.”
- Provide an overview of key content by briefly introducing the foundational areas of study, including relevant knowledge, skills, and attitudes developed.
- Identify any specific areas of specialization (if relevant), such as concentrations, and introduce them in the program description; note that full requirements for concentrations are detailed in the requirements section.
- Reference all degree options available (for example, linked BA/BS programs), and indicate that differences in program requirements are outlined in the requirements section.
- Describe career pathways for graduates, NACE Career Readiness Competencies or transferable employment skills developed throughout the program, and potential opportunities for graduate study.
- If the program prepares students for licensure or certification, or may contribute toward the educational requirements for professional certification or licensure, mention this fact and that further information on requirements for licensure and certification can be found on UConn’s State Licensure website.
- Mention the academic unit(s) responsible for offering the program, as appropriate.
There is no set order for introductory information. However, it will be helpful to students to begin with a general introduction to the field and the program itself.
Catalog Copy for the Introductory Text Example:
Underwater basketweaving combines techniques from materials science, art, and aquatic engineering, and requires creative and technical skills. The BA in Underwater Basketweaving provides students with a broad education in the traditional and contemporary practice of crafting woven vessels beneath the surface, alongside the growing field of underwater basket manufacturing. The University of Connecticut program has strengths in kelp, including advanced studio techniques and cultivation. Classes are also offered in industrial underwater basketweaving.
The program provides a unique breadth in artistry and manufacturing, with all students offered opportunities to participate in professional placements. Graduates are prepared for careers in underwater basket design and manufacturing, aquatic arts, or further study in hydrodynamic craftwork. Beyond directly-related fields, Underwater Basketweaving graduates have also gone on to employment in a wide range of oceanic careers, including ocean arts marketing and management.
The program is offered by the School of Aquatic Arts.
Program Location and Modality
The CourseLeaf CIM form for submitting new or updating programs now requires information on the location(s) and modality(ies) in which programs are offered. If your program is offered in more than one location or modality, the Catalog should identify any differences between campus offerings or modalities.
This information must include:
- Identify concentrations or course offerings that vary by location or modality.
- Clarify the structure of hybrid offerings, specifying the online and in-person components.
- Majority in-person: required courses are in-person, with a limited selection of online electives.
- A set sequence of in-person classes is required, with a range of options for online or in-person electives.
- Majority online: core courses are online, with limited in-person options.
Catalog Copy for Program Location and Modality Example:
This program is offered at the Deepwater and Tidal River campuses. The Kelp Arts concentration (advanced studio electives in kelp techniques and the kelp cultivation sequence) is only available at the Deepwater Campus. The Industrial Aquatic Basketmaking concentration is only available at the Tidal River Campus. Diving certification is integrated at both sites.
Catalog Copy Program Modality Example:
The Graduate Certificate in Advanced Industrial Underwater Basketweaving Production is offered predominantly as an in-person program. Two electives (UBWV 5215 Systems Analysis for Underwater Manufacturing and UBWV 5114 Sustainable Underwater Manufacturing) are offered online and can be used to complete the certificate as a hybrid program.
Admission
If the program has specific standards or requirements for admission, they may be included in this section. Providing them as part of Catalog copy makes the expectations clear for prospective students. Supplementary academic standards can be included in the requirements section.
Catalog Copy for Admission Requirements Example:
Application for admission to the BA in Underwater Basketweaving requires submission of a portfolio of underwater or terrestrial art. Review processes can be found on the website of the School of Aquatic Arts.
Programmatic Accreditation
The CourseLeaf CIM form for submitting new or updating programs now requires information on programmatic accreditation. If your program is accredited, or meets educational requirements for licensure or certification, it is recommended that you make a statement to this effect. Many accreditors require or encourage programs to provide a link of where they can find further information about the accreditation body.
Catalog Copy for Programmatic Accreditation Example:
The BA in Underwater Basketweaving is accredited by the International Consortium for Submerged Arts Education (ICSAE), recognizing our commitment to rigorous academic standards and innovative curricular practices in underwater arts education. For further information on the ICSAE see: www.underwateraccreditation.ocean
This section outlines what a student must complete to earn the credential. It must include:
- Total credits required for the program
- Required courses
- A list of core courses (with course codes and titles)
- Any electives or concentration areas (with course codes and titles)
- Any capstone, thesis, or practicum components.
- Minimum grade or GPA requirements, or other supplemental academic standards
- Information on general education (Common Curriculum) requirements
- Information on school or college requirements
Catalog Copy for Program Requirements Example:
Underwater Basketweaving (BA) Requirements
The BA in Underwater Basketweaving requires 36 credits: 21 core credits and 15 credits in one of three concentrations.
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| UWBW 2001 | Introduction to Underwater Weaving | 3 |
| UWBW 2003 | Introduction to Arts Diving | 3 |
| UWBW 2180 | Seaweed Harvesting | 3 |
| UWBW 2080 | Underwater Basket Design I | 3 |
| UWBW 3008 | Underwater Basketweaving Studio I | 3 |
| UWBW 3703 | Advanced Arts and Production Diving | 3 |
| UWBW 3580 | History of Underwater Basket Production | 3 |
| Total credits (core requirements) | 21 |
Kelp Arts Concentration (Deepwater Campus only)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| UWBW 3380 | Foundations of Kelp Farming and Harvesting | 3 |
| UWBW 3010 | Kelp Techniques I | 3 |
| UWBW 4001 | History of Kelp Design | 3 |
| UWBW 4050 | Senior Project | 3 |
| UWBW 3344 | Kelp Techniques II | 3 |
| Total credits (concentration) | 15 |
Industrial Aquatic Basketmaking Concentration (Tidal River Campus only)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| UWBW 3588 | Underwater Industrial Production | 3 |
| UWBW 4008 | Underwater Industrial Design | 3 |
| UWBW 3890 | Industrial Aquatic Plant Harvesting | 3 |
| UWBW 4050 | Senior Project | 3 |
| UWBW 3346 | Underwater Production Placement | 3 |
| Total credits (concentration) | 15 |
Underwater Craft Design Concentration (Deepwater and Tidal River Campuses)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| UWBW 3380 or UWBW 3588 or UWBW 5280 | Foundations of Kelp Farming and Harvesting or Underwater Industrial Production or Advanced Aquatic Plant Cultivation | 3 |
| UWBW 4050 | Senior Project | 3 |
| Nine credits of UWBW 3000- or 4000-level classes from the following: | ||
| UWBW 3010 | Kelp Techniques I | 3 |
| UWBW 3344 | Kelp Techniques II | 3 |
| UWBW 3009 | Underwater Basket Design II | 3 |
| UWBW 3350 | Traditional Basketry Techniques: Wetland Variants | 3 |
| UWBW 4008 | Underwater Industrial Design | 3 |
| UWBW 3390 | Rapid Prototyping for Submerged Products | 3 |
| UWBW 3370 | Eco-Design: Sustainable Marine Materials | 3 |
| UWBW 3372 | Hand Tool Mastery for Hydric Materials | 3 |
| UWBW 4325 | Design for Circularity: Reclaiming Marine Fibers | 3 |
| UWBW 4420 | Field Methods: Coastal Harvesting & Permitting | 3 |
| Total credits (concentration) | 15 | |
University Common Curriculum Requirements for Undergraduate Degree Programs
All undergraduate students are required to fulfill a series of general education requirements to obtain a bachelors degree, in addition to the specific obligations associated with their chosen major and any other criteria established by their respective school or college. For further details regarding these requirements, please refer to Common Curriculum Requirements.
Catalog Copy for the Common Curriculum Requirements Example:
School of Aquatic Arts Requirements
Students must meet a set of requirements established by the college in addition to the University’s Common Curriculum requirements. For more information, see the School of Aquatic Arts section of this catalog.
All academic programs must provide learning objectives, which will appear in the catalog starting in AY26/27. The institutional accreditor, NECHE, requires that all programs publish learning objectives and participate in assessment and continuous improvement processes related to student learning.
Program learning objectives clearly, measurable statements that describe the specific knowledge, skills, and competencies students are expected to achieve upon completing the program. Information is available on the CETL website providing further information on the development of learning objectives:
- Developing Learning Objectives | Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning
- Learning Objective Tip Sheet | Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning
Undergraduate Programs
For the AY26-27 Catalog, the Office of Academic Program Assessment (OAPA), located within CETL, has provided the approved learning objectives for undergraduate programs to the Registrar. These learning objectives will be published as submitted unless updates are made via CourseLeaf CIM.
Details related to the development of undergraduate program learning objectives and related assessment cycles is provided by OAPA: Undergraduate Triennial Cycle | Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning
Graduate Programs
In AY24/25 the Graduate Faculty Council adopted University-wide program learning objectives (PLOs) for master’s and doctoral programs. Beginning in AY25/26, supported by the Faculty Assessment Fellows will work with graduate programs to develop additional or alternative learning objectives relevant to their program, or to determine if the program will simply follow the standard Graduate School PLOs. The approved University-wide program learning objectives will be published in the Catalog unless updates are made via CourseLeaf CIM
The Office of Academic Program Assessment (OAPA), housed within CETL, supports this overall project. Further information is available on CETL’s website: Graduate program assessment | Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning
Programs with Programmatic Accreditation
Learning objectives designated by programs for accreditation purposes should be included in the corresponding catalog entry. If these objectives have not yet been submitted, they may be provided through CourseLeaf CIM.
If learning objectives are changed because of accreditation requirements or standards, they should be in the Catalog as well. To make these updates, submit a modification through CourseLeaf CIM.
This section is largely used to identify accelerated master’s programs (e.g., 4+1) or similar offerings. Each program is listed by name and has a dedicated catalog entry containing comprehensive details: Accelerated Degree Programs | University of Connecticut Academic Catalog
Best practice in providing information on related programs is to include the following:
- List the required courses students must complete for the related program, emphasizing the sequence of courses to be taken during undergraduate study.
- Specify the timing and process for students to apply for entry into the program.
- Describe the career outcomes available to graduates, noting whether the combined programs fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification.
Catalog Copy for the Related Program Tab Example:
4+1 Accelerated Underwater Basketweaving BA / Underwater Craft Production MA
The 4+1 Accelerated Underwater Basketweaving BA and Underwater Craft Production MA is a program available to undergraduate students seeking careers in underwater craft production.
Both programs are accredited by the International Consortium for Submerged Arts Education (ICSAE).
The Underwater Craft Production MA requires 36 credits, up to 12 of which can be completed as an undergraduate student. Students apply for the accelerated track at the end of their sophomore year and apply to the graduate MA program during their senior year. Students must have completed UWBW 370 (Advanced Arts and Production Diving) and at least 24 credits of the major with a minimum 3.0 GPA to be accepted into the program.
Students are expected to take the following courses in their senior year, which will count toward their graduate program:
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| UWBW 5588 | Advanced Underwater Industrial Production | 3 |
| UWBW 5009 | Advanced Studio Design for Submerged Products | 3 |
| UWBW 5375 | Eco-Production: Sustainable Marine Farming and Production | 3 |
| UWBW 5346 | Underwater Production Placement II | 3 |
| Total advanced credits | 12 |
By completing both the Underwater Basketweaving BA and Underwater Craft Production MA graduates will meet the educational requirements for licensure as an Underwater Craft Manager and will be eligible to sit for the Underwater Craft Manager Licensure exam. Further details are provided in relevant program handbooks and on the School for Underwater Arts website.