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Lumen Programs Form: Rationale and Justifications Section

Series of linked KnowledgeBase documents that includes instructions for accessing and completing the Lumen Program form, start to finish. This document provides directions for completing the fields in the Rationale and Justifications section.

Table of Contents

Fields

Following are the questions/fields in this section, details on each field, and tips and guidance for completing the question/field. The questions/fields are listed in the order they appear on the form. Each will display, be hidden, or be disabled depending on the nature of the proposal. 

How does the named option relate to the major and to other named options in the major, if relevant?

For proposals for new named options or substantive changes to existing named options, explain how the degree program is structured to utilize the named option. As noted in the question, this includes how the named option appropriately relates to the degree program and to any other named options, as applicable.

Why is the program being proposed? What is its purpose?

This is a straight-forward question, seeking a succinct rationale for the new program's addition to the array. Subsequent questions ask specifically about relation to mission, student demand, market demand, etc., so the response to this question is essentially an overview of the why the new program is being proposed. 

Need as Suggested by Current Student Demand: Describe the method used to project student demand for the program, including studies conducted and data that support and sustain student demand. This should include institutional, local, state, regional, national, and/or professional organization data, as well as a competitive analysis of peer institution programs.

Provide evidence of current student demand for the proposed program. The response should include, as appropriate, 1) the method used to project student demand for the program, 2) studies conducted and data that support and sustain student demand, 3) how approval of a new program will affect existing enrollments/demand for related programs, etc.

Need as Suggested by Market Demand: Describe the national, state, regional, and local market, workforce, and industry need for the proposed program. Include relevant data and details on studies conducted to understand employer needs, market trends, job data, and the competitive market.

Provide evidence of need for the program as suggested by market demand. This should include details on the national, state, regional, and local market, workforce, and industry needs for the proposed program, including relevant data. In addition to the market research, proposers might also consider a review of peer programs at other institutions, current trends in the field, etc. For additional suggestions on writing this section, review the Landscape Assessment and Feedback from Stakeholders section of the KB on Academic Program Name Changes; not all information is relevant, but there might be helpful ideas.

What gap in the program array is it intended to fill?

Discuss the program in relation to the university’s academic program array. How will it complement or fill a gap within current offerings? Consider both related program names/titles and Classifications of Instructional Program (CIP) codes

How will the program curriculum prepare students to become contributing members of society with a global perspective and worldview of their discipline?

As the question suggests, respond to explain how the program's requirements have been designed to prepare students for citizenship in a democratic society by teaching them to consider the needs of all individuals. 

What is the rationale for this change?

For program change proposals, provide an overview on why the change is needed/desired. This can include details on the problem that is being solved/addressed by the change, the motivation for the change, etc.