BASC hears status update on program‑review framework; KSU, KU and KUMC to report in May

BASC staff presented an overview of the Board of Regents’ updated academic program‑review framework, the metrics used in the 2024 cycle, and the schedule for upcoming institutional reports. The presentation explained changes to the review process adopted in 2023 and how universities were required to use new affordability and success metrics when examining undergraduate programs this year.

Sam Christy Dangermond of board staff summarized the evolution of program review: institutions historically used an eight‑year review cycle but the board added a strategic alignment process in 2018 and commissioned an academic portfolio review with the RPK Group in 2022. In 2024, universities were required to review undergraduate programs that missed minimum thresholds on two or more of four criteria; the criteria include on‑time progression, transfer‑credit limits, minimum average juniors/seniors in major and 5‑year median wage for bachelor’s graduates. Institutions could recommend phasing out, merging or placing programs on an action plan of no more than three years.

Sam said Kansas State reviewed 219 programs and will provide recommendations by the May 14 meeting; the University of Kansas reviewed 247 programs and recommended phasing out two, merging two and placing five programs on action plans; KU Medical Center reviewed 51 programs and recommended moving one master’s program for accreditation alignment and phasing out one master’s program. Staff noted one correction that will be made for the May 14 packet: when K‑State’s genetics master’s and doctoral enrollments are combined the metric meets the minimum threshold.

Regents asked whether universities provide reasons when recommending program phase‑outs; staff said institutions typically provide a combination of factors including low enrollment and low completions. A regent asked for a comparison showing how overall university enrollment trends relate to programs being reviewed; staff agreed to consult the data unit about producing a comparative analysis for the board’s consideration.

Next steps

K‑State, KU and KU Medical Center will present verbal reports to BASC at the May 14 meeting and to the full Board of Regents at the June 11 meeting. BASC will evaluate the effectiveness of the current framework in 2028 as scheduled under the policy adopted in 2023.