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Frequently Asked Questions

Questions that are not answered below may be directed to the Academic Program Review team.

What are the benefits of academic program review?

Northwestern University’s Program Review began in 1985 as a faculty initiative to review every academic and administrative unit at the University in the pursuit of continued excellence and achievement. The purpose of Academic Program Review has many benefits to units and the University more broadly, including more effective planning and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Learn more in the Overview section.  

Does Academic Program Review duplicate other assessment efforts?

While Academic Program Review is distinct from accreditation and other types of assessments, it can (and should) incorporate outputs from these processes. Other assessment efforts may be particularly helpful to a unit in developing key issues and self-study when undergoing a review. Ultimately, the review process is unique as an internal quality initiative that results in specific action planning between the unit and central administration.

Can reviews be effective given the length of time between them?

Academic Program Review is most effectively used as a long-term planning tool that engages department, school, and University leaders on the unit’s strategy. It is not intended to be the sole strategic planning, data gathering, or change management mechanism for any unit; units at Northwestern are strongest when their leadership continuously engages in these activities. Academic Program Review is most effective when these elements are already in place and can support a more in-depth analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for the unit. When a unit is lacking a strategic plan/roadmap or performance indicators, a review may serve as a catalyst for developing them.

Can I access review results or data?

Much of the review process is confidential. In order to gain the most honest feedback from members or constituents of a unit, we have an obligation to ensure that the information will not be personally identifiable or shared outside of the review. Academic Program Review information is obtained from and shared with the members of the unit and those participating in the review (internal reviewers, external reviewers, the Dean, central administration, and the Faculty Advisory Council) solely for the benefit of the unit. Units may choose to share results with collaborating internal partners, or key external stakeholders, such as an advisory board, at their own discretion.

Is academic program review tied to the budgeting process?

The Academic Program Review process should focus on improvements that can be made using resources that currently are available to the unit. However, the review may consider improvements and expansions that would require additional resources; in such cases, the need and priority for additional resources should be clearly specified. Beginning in the Fall of 2025, reviews will take place during the fall term to better align with subsequent university resource planning.

How is the review schedule set?

Departments are typically reviewed once every ten years. The review calendar is determined by the Office of the Provost, in partnership with the Deans and aligned with decanal reviews, specialized accreditation processes and other strategic planning processes. View the current schedule of academic program reviews. 

 

 

Contact Us

For general questions about Academic Program Review, please email program.review@northwestern.edu. Or you can contact a member of our team directly.