3.3 Credential-Level Specifications
KPU offers several credentials ranging from citations to post-baccalaureate degrees. The level of proficiency students must demonstrate upon the successful completion of their program must depend on the type of credential they are receiving. The program learning outcomes for a certificate program will be different from that of a diploma or a degree program. Identifying the level of proficiency students are to achieve at the credential level will help the program review team ensure that the program outcomes developed/reviewed are attainable and credential appropriate.
After completing this section, the program review team should consider the credential level specification of the program under review and may recommend revisions to the program outcomes in section 3.4.
3.3.1 Credential Awarded
The complexity as well as the number of program outcomes required for a 30-credit certificate program as opposed to a 120-credit degree program designed will naturally be different. Identifying the credit requirement for the following types of credentials and the time frame of the program will help develop suitable program outcomes later in section 3.4.
- Certificate
- Diploma
- Undergraduate Degree
- Post Baccalaureate Diploma
- Graduate Diploma
- Graduate Degree
3.3.2 Program Laddering
Understanding the associated credential will determine the nature, complexity and the number of program outcomes required for each credential type. If there are other programs laddering into the program under review, then additional program outcomes may be presented as follows.
Here is an example:
Program Outcomes for the CISY Certificate
- demonstrate core IT competency in user support.
- demonstrate core IT competency in programming and small application development.
- learn and demonstrate current strategies, methodologies and techniques for systems development using appropriate tools.
- function effectively as a member of an IT team to accomplish common goals.
Program Outcomes for the CISY Diploma
In addition to the four outcomes listed above:
- demonstrate core IT competency in database and information management.
- read and interpret technical information and write clearly for a wide range of audiences.
Program Outcomes for the B.Tech Degree
In addition to the six outcomes listed above:
- engage in continuous learning, as well as research and evaluate new ideas.
- exhibit professional, legal, and ethical behavior.
3.3.3 Number of Credits
Indicate the total number of credits awarded in this program.
3.3.4 Admission Requirements
Understanding admission criteria will assist the program review team to ascertain whether the program outcomes that will be developed/assessed later are progressive/ incremental enough to facilitate students to upgrade their entry level competencies to the required program competencies after completing the program.
3.3.5 Next Steps
Refer to the Self-Study Guide (KPU Program Review Guide Series #4) Chapter 4, section 3.3 (Credential-level specifications). Follow the instructions provided in that section.
