Phase I: Planning and Prioritization 

Pre-Planning Phase: Vetting New Program Ideas

A “build it and they will come” approach won’t work in today’s competitive environment. Adding a new program to the schedule without first assessing market viability can cost time and resources. During the pre-planning phase, a Dean will need to approve the new program idea before it is recommended for the New Program Schedule (Step 1). 

Resources on Vetting New Program Ideas

VIU Program Development Resources

Student and Labour Market Demand

Ministry Resources

Step 1: Deans present new program ideas at Planning and Priorities

A new program recommended for the Schedule means the Dean has vetted the program, the program is a priority for the area, and there is a team ready to develop and implement it within the next 2-3 years.

  • Every January Planning and Priorities will reserve agenda time for Deans to present 3-year rolling program plans, including new program ideas and any revisions to existing plans. In the fall, Deans will be provided with a New Program Concept Form to assist in preparing for the January presentations. 
  • Deans will briefly describe the purpose of the new program (i.e. why do they want it, who is it going to serve, and why is it needed now). The Dean may also be asked to provide rationale for duplication if similar programs exist within the region, preliminary labour market demand, and/or how the new program builds on the faculty’s core strengths (related programs already offered, infrastructure, faculty expertise, etc…).
  • The Office of University Planning and Analysis will prepare a “New Program Schedule” that integrates all Faculty plans for discussion at Planning and Priorities meeting in February.

Step 2: Planning and Priorities discusses New Program Schedule and makes recommendation to Senate

  • Every February Planning and Priorities will reserve agenda time for committee members to discuss the New Program Schedule.
  • Planning and Priorities will refer to the Priorities for Program Planning, as approved by Senate as a guide for discussion.
  • Planning and Priorities will make a motion recommending that Senate approve the New Program Schedule.

Step 3: Senate reviews and makes a decision on the New Program Schedule

Subject to Senate approval, a proponent may begin developing their new program and proceed to Phase II: Development.