Program Review

Term from Higher Education industry explained for recruiters

Program Review is a standard process in colleges and universities where academic departments evaluate the quality and effectiveness of their educational programs. It's like a health check-up for college programs, typically happening every 5-7 years. During this process, departments look at things like student success rates, curriculum relevance, and resource needs. Think of it as a comprehensive evaluation that helps schools ensure their programs are meeting student needs and staying current with industry standards. Similar terms include Academic Program Assessment, Curriculum Review, or Academic Program Evaluation.

Examples in Resumes

Led Program Review process for the Business Department resulting in curriculum updates

Participated in annual Program Review and assessment activities for three academic programs

Coordinated Program Review and accreditation preparation for the Engineering Department

Managed Academic Program Review documentation and reporting processes

Typical job title: "Program Review Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Assessment Coordinator Program Review Specialist Academic Program Evaluator Institutional Effectiveness Coordinator Academic Assessment Director Program Assessment Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you manage a program review process for a large university with multiple departments?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience in project management, timeline creation, working with multiple stakeholders, and understanding of both accreditation requirements and institutional goals. Should mention data collection methods, faculty involvement, and report writing.

Q: How do you ensure program review findings lead to meaningful improvements?

Expected Answer: Should discuss methods for creating actionable recommendations, building faculty buy-in, tracking implementation of changes, and connecting review findings to strategic planning and budgeting processes.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What data sources would you use in a program review?

Expected Answer: Should mention student success metrics, enrollment trends, graduate outcomes, faculty credentials, course evaluations, and alumni feedback. Should understand how to gather and analyze this information.

Q: How do you involve faculty in the program review process?

Expected Answer: Should describe experience in faculty committees, workshops, data sharing methods, and strategies for gaining faculty participation and support in the review process.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of program review in higher education?

Expected Answer: Should understand basic concepts of quality assurance, continuous improvement, and meeting accreditation requirements. Should mention student success and program effectiveness.

Q: How would you organize and maintain program review documentation?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of document management, data organization, and basic report writing skills. Should mention importance of maintaining accurate records for accreditation.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic data collection and organization
  • Report writing and documentation
  • Understanding of higher education terminology
  • Basic knowledge of assessment practices

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Data analysis and interpretation
  • Faculty collaboration
  • Project coordination
  • Assessment plan development

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic planning integration
  • Accreditation management
  • Change management
  • Department leadership

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No experience in higher education environment
  • Lack of understanding of accreditation requirements
  • Poor communication or writing skills
  • No experience with data analysis or assessment
  • Unable to work collaboratively with faculty