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ADHE Requirements and Policy Overview

Academic program reviews at Arkansas State University are conducted in alignment with policiesArkansas establishedCode §6-61-214, which mandates that the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board (AHECB) regularly review existing academic programs offered by public colleges and universities in the state. These reviews are administered by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education (ADHE) and theare Arkansasdesigned Higher Education Coordinating Board (AHECB). These reviewsto ensure that all certificate and degree programs meet statewide standards forprogram quality, viability, and continuousalignment improvement.with statewide educational goals.

Review Cycle and Scope

  • All academic programs—both active and inactive—must undergo external review every 7 to 10 years.
  • Programs that are not program-specific accredited are reviewed by external consultants selected by the institution.
  • Accredited/licensed/state-certified programs follow the review schedule of their accrediting body but must still submit reports to ADHE.

Purpose of Program Review

The review process is designed to:

  • Evaluate program effectiveness and alignment with institutional goals.
  • Identify areas for improvement and strategic development.
  • Inform decisions related to program continuation, modification, or closure.

Required Documentation

Institutions must prepare a comprehensive self-study report that includes:

  • Program need and demand
  • Curriculum and delivery methods
  • Faculty qualifications
  • Student learning outcomes and assessment
  • Program resources and recent improvements

Reviewers and Site Visits

  • Institutions must select two out-of-state reviewers with disciplinary expertise.
  • At least one reviewer must conduct a site visit and meet with faculty, students, and administrators.
  • For Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, one reviewer must be a local industry expert, and one must be an out-of-state faculty consultant.

Reporting to ADHE

  • The reviewers’ report and the institution’s response must be submitted to ADHE within six weeks of receiving the evaluation.
  • ADHE staff present findings to the AHECB and may recommend resolutions related to statewide issues, program improvement, or program closure.

Institutional Response and Follow-Up

  • Institutions may respond to ADHE recommendations in writing or request a meeting.
  • Progress reports may be required one, three, or five years after the initial review, depending on the nature of the recommendations.
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