UW developing new academic programs: University plans to add 8 degree, certificate programs by 2022

If the proposed natural resources recreation and tourism degree becomes a reality at the University of Wyoming, it will be the first new academic program added to the university’s catalog in years.

As UW looks to expand its offerings — with a target of eight new academic programs by 2022 — university leadership is developing a new method of vetting proposals for future bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as certificates.

The new method brings these proposals before the board earlier in the development process. “This is something that really needed to be addressed,” Board President John MacPherson said during the board meeting Thursday. “It’s not only an opportunity for administration to flush out some potential issues early on, but from a selfish board perspective, it permits the board to become informed about what’s going on before they read about the program in the newspaper.”

The new method would require faculty and administrators wishing to develop a new program to prepare a notice of intent — a two to three page document outlining the purpose of the degree or certificate, how many additional classes and resources it would require and how many students are expected to enroll.

Read more: http://www.laramieboomerang.com/news/local_news/uw-developing-new-academic-programs-university-plans-to-add-degree/article_557f5e56-cf45-11e7-af62-3fd86c8ef9f4.html