Program Changes + Approval

The Vice-Provost (Programs) and the Programs Team provides support and advice to faculties and departments that are considering program changes or the development of new programs. The goal is to ensure changes and new programs are moved forward in a timely manner while ensuring that the University is compliant with policy and legislation.

Faculties and departments are encouraged to contact the Office early to seek guidance in the required processes. Graduate Program proposals are coordinated in collaboration with the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.

Book a consultation with the Programs Office

Changes to Existing Programs

Program changes require approval at various University Governance committees and from the government. Even a minor change to a program, such as an adjustment to the program name, will require consultation and approval at varying levels within and outside of the University. Other types of changes may include but are not limited to: academic standing, admission criteria, program requirements, required courses, course name changes, program suspensions and/or program terminations.

Proposals for New Programs

Before new programs can be offered by the University of Alberta, they must be approved by the Alberta Ministry of Advanced Education. Proposed new programs will follow a prescribed path of approval through University Governance and the Ministry of Advanced Education. The Office will provide advice on proposal templates, recommended consultation, governance approval pathways, and timelines.

New Programs

1. Program Office Consultation

 Request a consultation with Programs Office (PO)
  • Complete this form to request a consultation.
  • Meet with PO to discuss new program idea, process and support
  • Confirm support of Faculty Dean and College Office of Education

2. New Program Initiation Form

 Complete New Program Initiation Form with support from:
  • Programs Office for market analysis
  • Enrolment Partner for enrolment projections
  • Recruitment for international student opportunities

3. Decision Advisory Team - Programs

 Meeting will be scheduled with Decision Advisory Team - Programs (DAT-P):
  • Attend a meeting with DAT-P to respond to questions about the proposed program
  • Review feedback and recommendations for next steps communicated back to proponent

4. Template Completion

 Complete Ministry templates, including the following:
  • Develop PLOs and curriculum mapping
  • Gather supporting documentation
  • Complete required consultations
  • Complete budget template (internal document)
The Programs Office will review and approve templates before entering internal approvals phase

Internal Approvals Phase

5. Internal Committees
Undergraduate

Program Support Team
Graduate

Graduate Program Support Team

6. Internal Approvals

Faculty Council

Faculty Council

GPS Council
Programs Office coordinates External Reviews for degree programs before GFC Programs Committee

GFC Programs Committee

GFC Programs Committee

7. Ministry Approval
  • If appropriate, GFC PC approved proposal submitted for Ministry review and approval
  • Includes System Coordination (reviews from other AB PSIs) for degree proposals.

8. Development
  • RO completes system set-up
  • Complete course development
  • Once Ministry approval is received, marketing and student recruitment commences

9. Launch
  • First intake begins

Tool Kit


Program Support Team Info

Related Links