Criteria for the Formation of Schools

From: Robin S. Wilson, President

Subject: Criteria for the Formation of Schools

In accordance with the provisions of the University policy on changes in academic organization (EM 76-015 and EM 80-005) and as a follow-up to EM 86-002, "Redesignation of schools as colleges," the following policy is approved for implementation.

CRITERIA FOR THE FORMATION OF SCHOOLS

The formation of both a single-unit school (a unit with one designated leader and recognized courses of study) and a multi-unit school (a unit composed of two or more academic departments) must be based upon recommendations from the students, faculty, department chairs, and dean(s) of the affected colleges(s) as provided for in EM 76-015 and amended by EM 80-005.

Any proposed school must enhance the college's abilities to achieve its stated academic mission.

A single-unit school must

• Provide courses of study leading to a baccalaureate and/or master's degrees.
• Be in a field in which school status is recognized nationally.
• Show how the proposed school structure will enhance the disciplines or professions contained in the proposed school.
• Address the possibilities for expanded outside funding.
• Develop a plan to administer its own personnel procedures, curriculum review, resource allocations, monies accruing from outside activities, accreditation requirements, and any other activities generally conducted at the department level.
• Explain how the proposed change affects the degrees offered.

A multi-unit school must

• Include two or more academic departments which offer related degree programs.
• Contain academic fields in which school status is recognized nationally.
• Show how the proposed school structure will enhance the disciplines or professions contained in the proposed school.
• Address the possibilities for expanded outside funding.
• Develop a plan to show how the school will be administered. Included in this plan will be a description of the coordination functions to be provided (e.g., curriculum reviews, resource allocations, outside funding activities).
• Explain how the proposed change affects the degrees offered.
• Indicate the probable impact of the change upon all units in the college(s) involved as to redistribution of resources, present and future linkages, and organizational structures.