The central question addressed in the review is whether the department, program, or center is fulfilling its evolving goals, in the context of the mission and goals of the College. The focus is on teaching effectiveness, continuous enhancement of student learning, and ongoing faculty development. As important, the program review process provides the department, program, or center an opportunity to address any areas needing improvement and support. The most useful program reviews are reflective, self-critical, and visionary, providing recommendations to improve operations that are reviewed and implemented when appropriate and feasible. The more effective program review processes also recognize the timeliness of the process and recognize that delays impact overall program planning, assessment and advocacy opportunities.
In essence, the objective of the program review is to answer three questions:
Ordinarily, the program review begins in September and is integrated with the operational planning and assessment cycle. This strategy allows programs to arrive at strategies for improving the overall operations of the departments and to strategically align the self-study to planning and budgeting milestones. The first three phases of the process conclude by September of the following year; however, the fourth phase is an ongoing and iterative process that supports program planning and continuous program improvement. Externally accredited programs may conduct their Program Reviews on a cycle that is consistent with their external accreditation cycle.
Delays in the program review should be determined in conjunction with the Provost and the Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness. Programs not completing a review within a 10-year span may experience delays in substantive program revisions until their program review is completed. Academic Program Review and Self-Study and Operational Planning, Assessment and Budgeting Cycles. The program review and self-study are integrated with the operational planning and budgeting processes, creating a continuous cycle of review, evaluation and improvement.
| Program Review and Self Study | |
| 1st Phase | Self-Study and Narrative Report |
| 2nd Phase | External Review and Onsite Visit |
| 3rd Phase | External Review Report |
| 4th Phase | Review and Responses Planning Agreements |
| Operational Planning, Assessment and Budgeting | |
| 5th Phase | Identify and Align Operational Objectives |
| 6th Phase | Identify Assessment Measures |
| 7th Phase | Align Goals and Objectives To Budget |
| 8th Phase | Budget Submission and Review |
Departmental Resources and Onsite Visit Guides
External Review Team (ERT) Resources
Program Review Timeline
Spelman College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate degrees. Contact the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Spelman College.