Johnson & Wales University : Academic Program Review Process

Academic Program Review Process

Through its strategic plan, FOCUS 2011, Johnson & Wales University is committed to strengthen itself in many ways. At the heart of the plan is the enhancement of quality throughout the university, and its first major strategic objective is “to create an exciting learning community offering programs that are distinguished by their relevance, excellence and rigor, as well as a high quality of instruction."

This critical objective is accomplished, in substantial part, through the university’s Academic Program Review Process. The purpose of the Academic Program Review Process is the systematic evaluation and enhancement of each of the university’s degree programs.

The process is designed to allow for the general assessment of each degree program from internal and external perspectives, while promoting reflection and innovation. The results of the review process and subsequent analysis inform the program’s leadership and faculty as they work to continually refine and enhance the program over time to meet the evolving needs of students and their employers.

Self Evaluation Report
Program leadership and faculty spend four to six months preparing a comprehensive written Self Evaluation Report assessing the program against the established Program Review Criteria and using the Statistical Data Package provided by the Institutional Research Office. The Report is submitted to the Provost’s Office.

On-Site Evaluation by External Review Team

  • Potential Team Members are identified by program leadership and faculty.
  • On-Site Evaluation Visit Dates are established by program leadership and the Provost’s Office.
  • Provost’s Office invites External Team Members and Chair to participate in the On-Site Evaluation Visit.
  • Provost’s Office sends Program Self Evaluation Report and Appendices to Team Members for review prior to on-site visit.
  • On-Site Evaluation Visit is conducted by Team at one or more campuses, depending upon program under review (three to five days).

External Review Team Report

  • Team Chair coordinates completion and submission to Provost’s Office of External Review Team Report.
  • Provost’s Office sends External Review Team Report to program leadership.

Program Action Plan
Program leadership and faculty prepare a formal written five-year Program Action Plan based upon the Self Evaluation and External Review Team Reports, defining tangible measurable objectives to address any issues identified in the reports and to enhance the program.

The Program Action Plan is submitted to the Provost’s Office for review and approval, and is used to guide the enhancement and development of the program over the ensuing five-year period.

For more information, contact the university provost’s office at 401-598-1345 or email.