Academic Program Review
Overview
Academic Program Review (APR) takes place on a six-year cycle at the University of Rhode Island. The process provides departments with a structured opportunity to reflect on their work, evaluate program effectiveness, and plan strategically for the future.
APR is intended to support continuous improvement by examining key aspects of a program’s quality, impact, and direction. It also provides space for departments to highlight accomplishments and identify priorities moving forward.
Student Learning Outcomes and Assessment
Student learning outcomes assessment is an important component of APR. Programs are expected to present evidence of student learning at the program level and to reflect on what that evidence indicates.
Through this process, departments:
- Identify areas of strength
- Recognize opportunities for growth
- Consider changes that may enhance student learning
- Document progress over time
The integration of assessment into APR reinforces the University’s commitment to ongoing program improvement and student success.
Committee and Governance
APR is supported by the Joint Committee on Academic Program Review and Outcomes Assessment. The committee provides guidance on the review process and helps ensure consistency and clarity across programs.
Additional information about the committee is available here.
APR Schedule
Academic programs participate in APR according to a six-year review cycle. Information about the current review schedule is available here.
Resources and Support
Departments with questions about APR or its connection to student learning outcomes assessment may contact the Office of Student Learning Outcomes Assessment and Accreditation (SLOAA) for support. We also invite departments to review the university’s APR handbook as well.