Academic Program Development

Faculty who wish to develop new graduate degree programs are encouraged to work closely with the Graduate Division from the beginning of the proposal process. We can advise on how to create a successful proposal.

The steps to develop a new graduate program are as follows:

Step 1: Preliminary Consultation
In order to streamline the proposal review process, all new graduate degree proposals begin with a preliminary meeting with the Graduate Dean. Please contact the Director of Academic Initiatives, Celina Mojica, to inform the Graduate Division of your plans. The Graduate Dean will meet with proposers as needed.

Step 2: Choose a Structure for the Program
Those contemplating development of a new graduate program should familiarize themselves with the various types of graduate programs offered by the University of California. To determine which structure works best for your needs, see Types of Graduate Programs.

Step 3: Add Your Proposal to the Office of Academic Planning’s Short Term Academic Outlook
Ensure that your proposal is included in the Campus Five Year Planning Perspective by submitting requested information to the Office of Academic Planning.

Step 4: Meet with the Budget Office

Proposers should meet with the Budget Office early in the proposal process to obtain the appropriate budget templates and support, and to discuss timeline and workflow.

Step 5: Create the Proposal

All proposals must be written in the approved CCGA proposal format. Flowcharts of campus and systemwide review and approval processes can be found here. Please review and carefully follow the Academic Senate’s instructions for submitting a new degree proposal. Please note that proposal development requires consultation with your School Dean’s Office, the Office of Academic Planning, the Office of Planning & Budget, the Academic Senate, and the Graduate Division. For contact information for these offices, please contact us.

Step 6: Submit Your Proposal for Review
Once the Budget Office has signed off on your budget, cost analysis (if applicable), and enrollment plans, the Graduate Division has provided feedback on your proposal, and the full proposal has undergone Department and School review, please email the complete program proposal and appendices to Paul Kang, the Associate Vice Provost for Academic Planning, in a single PDF file using the required CCGA proposal format.