Planning Considerations for SCHEV Proposals
Careful planning is essential when developing a new program, revising an existing one, or considering an organizational change. Planning considerations are guiding questions to help ensure proposals are aligned with Virginia Tech’s priorities and state expectations. They prompt reflection on student demand, workforce needs, available resources, and long-term sustainability, helping you anticipate challenges, strengthen your case, and show how your proposal adds value to students, employers, and the Commonwealth. These considerations are not a checklist or a formula for guaranteed approval, but serve as a framework for mission-driven, data-informed initiatives positioned for long-term success.
New Program
- Why should VT offer the new program?
- What is the focus of the program?
- Who is the target audience?
- What’s the market demand?
- What will the impact be on other VT programs?
- What is the return on investment to students?
- What resources are needed?
- Can VT sustain this program?
Program Change
- What prompted the proposed change?
- What is the nature of the change (e.g., curriculum, delivery format, CIP code)?
- What’s the rationale for the proposed change?
- What’s the impact of the change on existing programs?
- What’s the impact on students?
- What’s the impact on faculty and staff?
- What resources are needed?
Organizational Change
- What prompted the proposed organizational change?
- What is the nature of the change (e.g., new academic unit, closure of instructional site)?
- Have all stakeholders been consulted or informed?
- Does the change impact faculty and staff?
- Does the change impact academic programs?
- Does the change impact other academic units?
- What resources are needed?