Academic programmes development and review guidelines.

Abstract

Course and programme development is a meticulous venture which requires a methodical approach if the output is to suit fitness for purpose. In this regard, higher education institutions in Uganda are obliged by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) to develop policy documents that spell out guidelines and procedures for generating marketable courses and programmes. The guidelines are meant to provide general guidance on the process of course and programme development, review, and implementation. Busitema University as a Public University established in 2007 has been progressively developing policy documents for the operationalization of its tripartite mandate of teaching/learning, research, and outreach. The teaching/learning mandate direly requires the Academic Programme Development and Review guidelines. Whereas Busitema University has been following best practices in her programme curricula development and reviews, consolidating these into a guideline document refers much easier. The purpose of the Academic Programme Development and Review guidelines is to ensure understanding and a standardized approach of curriculum changes to assure the quality of subject content developed in the various courses. The review process will span recommendations made at departmental; Faculty; Directorate of Graduate Studies, Research, and Innovations (DGSRI); and Library and Academic Affairs Committee meetings. Senate will approve all additions, deletions, and changes (including changes in method of delivery) of courses. It should be noted that where a new programme draws on existing courses, there is need for accreditation by the NCHE. This additional time element needs to be catered for in the planning and preparation for introduction of new programmes.