| Procedure Number: ACAD 101 | Procedure Title: Monitoring Program Quality |
| Supersedes Existing Procedure? N | Policy Sponsor: Senior Vice-President Academic |
| Associated Policy: Y | Policy Owner: Dean, Leadership, Learning, and Academic Excellence |
| Next Review Date: April 2028 | Date Last Approved by the CET: April 9, 2025 |
| Related Documents and Links |
1. Introduction and Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to ensure a structured and consistent approach to monitoring the quality of academic programs at Loyalist College. This procedure outlines the processes for regular review and continuous improvement ensure that programs align with the college’s strategic priorities, meet regulatory and accreditation standards, and address the evolving needs of students, employers, and the community.
2. Application
This procedure applies to all approved programs of instruction at Loyalist College, including certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, graduate certificates, apprenticeships, and degrees.
3. Annual Program Quality Review (APQR) Process
3.1 Each winter semester, the Centre of Leadership, Learning, and Academic Excellence (CLLAE) provides the Annual Program Quality Review (APQR) form to Program Coordinators and Associate Deans. The APQR form outlines the key areas of review for each program, including curriculum, Program Advisory Committee (PAC) feedback, and professional development of faculty members.
3.2 Assigned faculty review the program’s curriculum, analyze student feedback, assess the effectiveness of teaching methods, and review the status of any ongoing action items. The completed APQR is submitted to the Associate Dean and CLLAE by the end of June as outlined in the Program Quality Assurance Process document.
3.3 Upon receiving the APQR, CLLAE reviews the submission and provides written feedback, including recommendations for further development. This feedback is shared with the Program Coordinator, Associate Dean, and Dean for review and action.
3.4 Assigned faculty address the recommendations and action items in the fall semester. CLLAE monitors the progress of action items and provides APQR-related support throughout the academic year.
3.5 Non-standard learning experiences follow an abbreviated review process that is facilitated by CLLAE in collaboration with the appropriate school or college department.
5.1 Programs with external quality assurance requirements, such as accreditation or regulatory reviews, will collaborate with CLLAE and other relevant college services to facilitate the development and submission of required documentation such as self-studies, evidence of compliance, and performance data. Regular consultations with CLLAE are required at the beginning of any external quality assurance process to ensure timelines and deliverables are developed.
5.2 CLLAE, in collaboration with the program and school, tracks and monitors action items stemming from external quality assurance reviews to ensure compliance and improvement initiatives are effectively implemented. Updates are reported during APQR and CPQR cycles to maintain alignment with accreditation requirements.
6. Related Documents
- ACAD 101 Program Lifecycle Policy
- ACAD 101 Monitoring Program Quality Procedure – Appendix A Annual Program Quality Review Form
- ACAD 101 Monitoring Program Quality Procedure – Appendix B Comprehensive Program Quality Review Form
- ACAD 101 Monitoring Program Quality Procedure – Appendix C Program Quality Assurance Process