This flow chart (docx) depicts the programme development and approval process for developing new courses at the University.  It is based on the Code of Practice for Programme Development and Approval (pdf).

Step 1 - Initial Concept

An initial concept is identified, either by a Department or College or as a result of market analysis that may be carried out centrally.

Step 2 - Early discussions

Each College has an Academic Advisor based in the Academic Office.  These are:

• Arts, Humanities and Law - Heather Willcocks - (x1373)
• Medicine, Biological Science & Psychology - Kate Pountney (x3451)
• Science & Engineering - Andrew Petersen - (x7458)
• Social Sciences - Kathryn Brennan - (x3639)

They will consider academic and quality assurance issues and co-ordinate any early discussions about the programme bringing in the following as appropriate:

• College Business/Review Group: to determine fit with College Strategy.
• Michelle Monamy in the Planning Office will help identify the market and provide initial guidance on how to approach market research (CFS login required).
• Course Design and Development Unit (CDDU): to explore course design
• Library and Careers Service staff to ensure that appropriate provision is made in these areas.
• College Accountant: to discuss costings and financial projections.

Step 3 - Outline Business Plan / Academic Rationale

The College Academic Adviser will help you through the College processes.  Usually this involves the preparation of an outline business plan and accompanying academic rationale which will be endorsed by the College Management Board / Head of College.  Click the following links to dowload the relevant templates (CFS login required):

Outline Business Case Template (Word Document)

Outline Business Case Template - Income and Expenditure (Excel document)

Step 4 - Approval Process

To determine the appropriate approval route, please consult the Code of Practice or speak to your College Academic Adviser.

Some proposals can be authorised by the College Management Board, other more complex proposals require approval by the Fee Setting and Programme Development Committee (FSPDC).

Step 5 - Further Market Testing

In some cases the FSPDC, the College or the Planning Support Group (PSG) may recommend that the proposed course is subject to further primary market testing.

Step 6 - Advertising and Applications

If approved, the approving body (College Management Board or FSPDC) will authorise advertising of the course and applications can be received.

Step 7 - Final Approval

Your proposal will now need to go to a specially convened Programme Approval Panel (PAP) for final approval. Contact Andrew Petersen, the Secretary of the Programme Approval Panel for advice on how and when to submit the proposal.

Step 8 - Course Set Up

Once PAP has approved the course, programme regulations will be developed, course codes can be set up within the Admissions Office, Finance Office and Registry and students can register.