Academic Program Review Policy

Responsible Unit: OIIE | Executive lead: Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost
Created: 2/25/2025 | Reviewed/Revised: 5/10/2025 | Effective: 6/10/2025 
Compliance: NWCCU Standards 1.B.1, 1.B.4, 1.C.5, 1.C.7 
Approving Body: ELT | Classification: Institution-wide 

Policy:  
Academic Program Reviews (APRs) will be conducted for all PNWU Academic Programs at least once every five years to evaluate their quality and effectiveness. The internal PNWU APR self-study report and specialized accreditation self-study report and findings (for applicable programs) are key elements of the APR Process. It is designed to assist Academic Programs in conducting a critical evaluation of their current activities, evaluating program-level data, identifying specific strengths, identifying achievement gaps and areas for improvement, and facilitating meaningful and productive strategic planning. 

To the extent feasible, PNWU will coordinate the timing of the APR with the schedule and requirements of a specialized accreditation review. 

Definitions: 
Academic Program Review – A periodic evaluation process that assesses how well a given academic program accomplishes its stated purpose. It also identifies opportunities for improvement.

Specialized Accreditation or Programmatic Accreditation – A comprehensive process that ensures an academic program – or a school or department – within an institution meets educational quality standards for its field.

Procedure: 
PNWU Program Review Guidebook for Programs with Specialized Accreditation
PNWU Program Review Guidebook for Programs without Specialized Accreditation
PNWU Program Review Schedule

Related Documents: 

Policy Resources

For assistance with policies and procedures contact:

Dee Dennis
ddennis@pnwu.edu