1.0     Purpose and Scope

This policy sets out the principles and requirements for comprehensive cyclical reviews of the University’s undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

This policy applies to all academic programs, plans and courses offered at The University of Queensland, including shorter form credentials and pathway programs and courses.

This policy does not apply to Higher Degree by Research and Higher Doctorate programs.

2.0     Principles and Key Requirements

The University of Queensland is committed to undertaking systematic and regular reviews of academic quality as part of the University’s quality assurance framework.

The guiding principles of the academic quality assurance process for programs, plans and courses offered at the University, including shorter form credentials and pathway programs and courses, are to:

1. Support the strategic objectives and regulatory requirements of the University.

2. Inform and assure the quality of academic offerings.

3. Support and enhance evidence-based decision making, on a cyclical basis.

4. Articulate the responsibilities of stakeholders in the quality assurance process.

2.1     Quality Assurance of Programs, Plans and Courses

2.1.1     Compliance and risk frameworks

The University must ensure compliance with the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) Act (Cth) 2011 and Higher Education Standards Framework (Threshold Standards) 2021. Part A of the Threshold Standards describes the matters that the University must consider in fulfilling its obligations to understand, monitor and manage higher education activities and associated risks.

The TEQSA Risk Assessment Framework is a key mechanism in TEQSA’s risk-based approach to assuring higher education standards. Relevant components of the TEQSA Risk Assessment Framework have been adopted in the University’s academic quality assurance processes.

2.1.2     Annual programs, plans and courses quality assurance

The annual programs, plans and courses quality assurance activity facilitates evidence-based monitoring, review and improvement of the quality of the University’s programs, plans and courses including shorter form credentials and pathway programs and courses. The process references internal and external standards and benchmarks, such as Group of Eight benchmarks and the TEQSA Risk Assessment Framework.

The annual quality assurance process is conducted in accordance with PPL 3.30.04 Annual Programs, Plans and Courses Quality Assurance - Procedure.

2.1.3     Academic Program Reviews

Academic Program Reviews facilitate the comprehensive, cyclical review of the University’s academic programs and plans. The process requires an evidence-based evaluation of the quality, structure, focus, sustainability and outcomes of programs and plans in consideration of internal and external standards and benchmarks.

The Academic Program Review process for all undergraduate programs and postgraduate coursework programs is conducted in accordance with PPL 3.30.05 Academic Program Review - Procedure.

3.0     Roles, Responsibilities and Accountabilities

3.1     Provost

The Provost has line management of the University’s programs, plans and courses quality assurance process and provides feedback to Executive Deans on quality assurance activities, implementation plans and outcomes, in consultation with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) as appropriate.

3.2     Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Teaching and Learning)

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Teaching and Learning) provide input to academic quality thresholds and assurance of high-quality program, plan and course offerings at the University.

3.3     Academic Board

The Academic Board provides expert advice to the Senate and the Vice-Chancellor on all matters relating to and affecting University teaching, research and educational programs, including with regard to the quality assurance of programs, plans and courses covered by this policy.

3.4     Executive Deans

Executive Deans are responsible for approving, monitoring and providing advice on action plans for programs, plans and courses arising from annual quality assurance processes.

Executive Deans are responsible for determining the review cycle and the conduct of Academic Program Reviews.

The Executive Deans advise the Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) on quality assurance matters and provide feedback to relevant Faculty staff.

4.0     Monitoring, Review and Assurance

This policy is monitored by the Teaching and Learning Committee and will be reviewed every five years.

5.0     Recording and Reporting

Details of the annual programs, plans and courses quality assurance process are generated by the academic quality assurance management system.

Records and reports associated with Academic Program Reviews are maintained in accordance with the Information Management Policy.