Course, Curriculum, and Catalog Management: Guiding Principles

Definitive Source.

The Catalog is the definitive, comprehensive source for academic program and course information. Any additional resources (i.e., plans of study, degree maps, Banner, degree audit) are generated from the information that is identified in the Catalog. The Catalog is published annually.

Accuracy.

Degree program requirements and course descriptions in the Catalog should be accurate and up-to-date. Catalog accuracy ensures the accuracy of other campus systems, including Banner and degree audit.

Clarity.

Catalog content should be clear and easy to understand for students, faculty, advisors, and program administrators. Information should be delivered consistently in a standardized format across programs and colleges and throughout the Catalog. The delivery of the curriculum should emphasize efficient and logical sequencing to facilitate student acquisition of knowledge and timely graduation.

Efficiency.

Program, course and catalog management processes should be timely, transparent and accessible to facilitate annual publication of the catalog. The processes and associated deadlines and deliverables should be clear and reasonable.

Faculty-Focused Process, Student-Focused Product.

The process of the creation and maintenance of University courses and curricula is a faculty-driven and faculty-owned process. The Catalog, as the product of this process, must be student-focused and user-friendly.