Program Policies and Guidelines

• Edit an Existing Program
• Propose a New Minor
• Propose a New Cross-Disciplinary Studies Minor
• Propose a New Concentration
• Propose a New Specialization
• Propose a New Academic Graduate Certificate Program
• Propose a New Degree Program
• Discontinue a Degree Program
• Name Change to a Degree Program
• Substantive Degree Program Change
• Change a Degree Designation

Edit an Existing Program

To propose changes to an existing program, use the online Curriculum Management system.

• When making changes to a program's curriculum, be sure to address academic policy requirements for the program type:
  • Undergraduate Degree Programs
  • Concentrations
  • Graduate Degree Programs and Specializations
  • Minor policies
  • Graduate Certificate Programs
• When making changes to a program’s curriculum which involve adding or removing courses, check to ensure there are no “hidden” prerequisites.
  • Prerequisites
• A consultation memo is needed when making changes to a program’s curriculum which involve adding or removing courses offered by another department. Signed memos should be attached to the Edit Program proposal in the Curriculum Management system.
  • Consultation Memo Template
• The senior project is a capstone experience required for all baccalaureate degree programs; total units for senior project must be a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 6.
  • Senior Project
• There is a limit on the amount of Internship or Cooperative Education that may count toward the degree.
  • Internship and Cooperative Education

Propose a New Minor

To propose a new minor, use the online Curriculum Management system.

Be sure to consult Academic Policy for Minors.

Propose a New Cross-Disciplinary Studies Minor

To propose a new cross-disciplinary studies minor, use the online Curriculum Management system.

Be sure to consult Academic Policy for Cross-Disciplinary Studies Minors.

Propose a New Concentration

To propose a new concentration, use the online Curriculum Management system.

Be sure to consult Academic Policy for Concentrations.

Propose a New Specialization

To propose a new specialization, use the online Curriculum Management system.

Be sure to consult Academic Policy for Specializations.

Propose a New Academic Graduate Certificate Program

To propose a new academic graduate certificate program, use the online Curriculum Management system.

Be sure to consult Academic Policy for Graduate Certificate Programs.

Propose a New Degree Program

Proposing a new major degree program is quite complex, and is a lengthy process.

Please contact the Academic Programs and Planning Office for more information.

Discontinue a Degree Program

Please contact the Academic Programs and Planning Office for more information.

Name Change to a Degree Program

The nature of degree program name changes may vary considerably, from a change that is minor to one that is quite significant (virtually a new program). All degree name changes must be submitted to the Chancellor's Office for approval.

Be sure to consult Academic Policy for Change of Degree Title/Name or Code.

Substantive Degree Program Change

As defined by Cal Poly's accrediting agency, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), substantive changes include off-campus programs, distance learning programs, and an addition of a degree program at a level different from that previously offered by the university.

Please contact the Academic Programs and Planning Office for more information.

Change a Degree Designation

Please contact the Academic Programs and Planning Office for more information.