Reviews & Academic Plans

Overview

UTQAP processes support a structured approach for creating, reflecting on, assessing and developing plans to change and improve academic programs and units in the context of institutional and divisional commitments and priorities.

In its Statement of Institutional Purpose (1992), U of T articulates its mission as a commitment “to being an internationally significant research university, with undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs of excellent quality.” Thus, “quality assurance through assessment of new program proposals and review of academic programs and units in which they reside is a priority for the University…:

The quality of the scholarship of the faculty, and the degree to which that scholarship is brought to bear in teaching are the foundations of academic excellence. More generally, all of the factors that contribute to collegial and scholarly life — academic and administrative complement, research and scholarly activity, infrastructure, governance, etc. — bear on the quality of academic programs and the broad educational experience of students. (Policy for Approval and Review of Academic Programs and Units (2010))

U of T’s approach to quality assurance is built on two primary indicators of academic excellence: 1) the quality of the scholarship and research of faculty; and 2) the success with which that scholarship and research is brought to bear on the achievement of Degree Level Expectations.

These indicators are assessed by determining how our scholarship, research and programs compare to those of our international peer institutions and how well our programs meet their Degree Level Expectations.

Review cycles happen as part of continuous improvement. They provide an unparalleled opportunity to secure the expert advice of leaders in the field concerning academic and administrative issues; assess our performance against leading international programs; identify areas where we can do better and vigorously pursue improvements; secure guidance on key strategic directions; and celebrate successes.

Contact

Decanal reviews:

Programs and units undergoing decanal reviews should contact their Dean’s Office.

Provostial reviews:

Dean’s Offices and units undergoing provostial reviews should contact:
David Lock
Coordinator, Academic Planning & Reviews
416.946.3421