Before July 1, 2018, all new programs and most program modifications (including a change in the name of the degree or the creation of a online version of a current on-ground or hybrid program) that go through CPAC will need to apply to NWCCU for approval of what is called a "minor substantive change." The NWCCU approval process does not pertain to any program that is fewer than 30 credits in a semester-based calendar or 45 credits in a quarter-based one.
New and modified programs are not allowed to advertise, recruit or admit new students, or launch classes until they have been approved by NWCCU. Information on NWCCU's substantive change policy can be found here. Please note this policy will change on July 1, 20018.
The substantive change application has two components. One is the application, which is an online form, and the other is a budget worksheet.
A Word document that mirrors the online form can be found below. You are encouraged to use the exemplar provided on this page to help you fill out the Word document. Please answer all of the questions in the document and send them to Jill Kern, Director of Assessment and Accreditation. She will copy and paste your responses into the online form.
NWCCU's budget template is also provided. Please have your college's budget officer complete the document. Then, ask him or her to mail it to Tara Moses, Senior Budget Officer, Dept. of Academic Affairs. Tara will review and approve the document.
Please call Jill Kern with any questions at x4217.