Program development and approval is a multi-stage process. The speed and efficiency of this process depend on careful planning and complete submissions. 

Key factors influencing workflow: 

• Completeness of the Proposal – Missing rationale, assessment plans, or catalog copy will delay review. Proposals will not be moved forward for final Council of Deans and Board of Trustees approval unless all required elements are included.  
• Cross-Unit Collaboration – Interdisciplinary programs often require coordination, review and approval from all relevant units, and if relevant multiple schools/colleges.  
• Dean’s offices are encouraged to use the new notifications from the intent phase to engage in cross-unit discussions where relevant.  
• Resource Considerations – Proposals must realistically account for faculty expertise, facilities, and budget. 
• Timing – Submitting well before catalog deadlines allows adequate time for review by the URC or ECGS, Board of Trustees, and OHE if required. An annual calendar of relevant deadlines is published by the Provost’s Office each year indicating major deadlines, this is found in the Academic Affairs Governance Documents Library.  

Catalog Deadline

The deadline for all program proposals – including adding new programs, inactivating programs, and program revisions of any kind – is March 1 of the year in which the changes will take effect for both undergraduate and graduate programs. Any proposals that are not fully approved by this deadline will take effect in the following academic year’s catalog.