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State-Level Requirements for Approval of Various Academic Program Actions At Public Institutions.

This process chart was developed by SCHEV staff as a reference guide for public institutions seeking state action on academic programs. Yellow shaded actions require preparation of program proposals. Non-shaded actions require submission of designated forms and narrative statements. SCHEV's "Policies and Procedures for Program Approvals and Changes" contains definitions of these terms, specific policy statements, detailed instructions, and links to all requisite forms.


Academic Program Action
Sought by Institution		 Council Approval SCHEV Staff Approval Action Reported to SCHEV No Action Required at State Level
New Degree Program1 X      
Spin-Off Degree Program   X    
First Professional Degree1 X      
Health Program1,2 X      
Major, Concentration, Option, Emphasis, Focus or Track       X
Certificate     X3  
C.A.G.S. or Ed.S.1 X      
Program Merger   X4,6    
Degree Designation Change1   X5    
Program Title Change   X5    
CIP Code Change   X5    
Program Discontinuance   X6 X6  


  • Policies and Procedures for Program Approvals and Changes (FULL PRINT VERSION)


    1 If a proposed academic program will elevate a public institution to a new degree level, then the institution must also seek approval to change its degree-level authority through the appropriate state procedures.

    2 §23-9.10:1 The State Council of Higher Education is hereby designated the planning and coordinating agency for all post-secondary educational programs for all health professions and occupations.

    3 For all certificate programs, submit the “Program Proposal” cover sheet and a requisite narrative statement.

    4 Submit the “Format for Merging Academic Programs” cover sheet and requisite narrative statement.

    5 Submit the “Format for Revising Academic Programs” cover sheet and requisite narrative statement.

    6 Submit the “Intent to Discontinue an Academic Program” cover sheet and requisite narrative. Action to remove a degree designation must be approved by SCHEV staff.