Academic Programs

• Degree Program Eligibility
  All universities and KCTCS institutions must comply with relevant EEO requirements before new programs or substantial program modifications may be implemented. 
  
  
• Program Approval Policy 
  The governing boards of the four-year institutions and KCTCS are authorized to approve new academic programs that fall within the institution’s negotiated program band based on the institution’s mission, strengths, and current programs.  Exceptions include first-professional, engineering, health-related, and education programs, which must be approved by the Council on Postsecondary Education.
  
  
• Program Bands
  The governing boards of the four-year institutions and KCTCS are authorized to approve, on behalf of the Council, new academic programs that fall within their program bands.
  
  
• Kentucky Postsecondary Program Proposal System (KPPPS)
  KPPPS is a website where institutions give notification of their intention to offer a new academic program.  When a proposal is posted on KPPPS, institutions have 45 days in which to voice any comments or concerns.  Once the 45-day review period has ended, the institution either completes its internal program approval process or submits a more detailed proposal for further Council review and/or approval.
  
  
• New Extended Campus Programs
  Institutions planning to offer programs outside their areas of geographic responsibility must consult with potential postsecondary partners in the region to ensure coordination and collaboration and to minimize unproductive competition. If there is opposition, the Council will decide how best to resolve the dispute.
  
  
• Academic Program Productivity Review Policy
  The Council provides guidelines for the review of academic program productivity which specify a four-year review cycle with interim productivity consultation.