TITLE 13B MARYLAND HIGHER EDUCATION COMMISSION

- 1 -

MARYLAND HIGHER EDUCATION COMMISSION

CODE OF MARYLAND REGULATIONS

13B.02.03

Academic Programs -- Degree-Granting Institutions

As amended through

October 28, 2013

This document contains a chapter of the Code of Maryland

Regulations and has been prepared by the Maryland Higher

Education Commission for the convenience of those persons served

by the Commission. The official regulations published by the Division

of State Documents, Office of the Secretary of State, are found at

http://www.dsd.state.md.us/comar/. The official regulations should

be consulted and are controlling in the event of any conflict between

those regulations and this document.

- 2 -

TITLE 13B

MARYLAND HIGHER EDUCATION COMMISSION

SUBTITLE 02 ACADEMIC REGULATIONS

Chapter 03 Academic Programs -- Degree-Granting Institutions

TABLE OF CONTENTS

.01 Scope …………………………………………………………………….… 4

.02 Definitions …………………………………….. ………………………….. 4

.02-1 Program Review Fees ……………………………………………………. 8

.03 Statutory Authority of the Commission Regarding Academic

Program Review, Approval, and Recommendation ………………….. 9

.04 Delegation of Program Responsibility ………………………………….. 12

.05 Long-Term Goals ……………………………..………………………….. 12

.06 Criteria for Program Review …………………………………………….. 13

.07 Mission and Planning Priorities …………………………………………. 14

.08 Need for the Proposed Program ………………………………………… 14

.09 Duplication of the Proposed Program …………………………………... 16

.10 Adequacy of Curriculum Design and Related Learning Outcomes …. 17

.11 Faculty Resources ……………………………………………………….. 17

.12 Library Resources ………………………………………………………… 18

.13 Physical Facilities and Instructional Equipment ……………………….. 18

.14 Finances……………………………………………………………………. 19

.15 Adequacy of Provisions for Evaluation of Programs ………………….. 20

.16 Minority Student Access….. …………………………………………… 20

.17 Low Productivity Programs ………………………………………………. 20

.18 Cooperative Programs ………….………………………………………… 20

.19 Parallel Programs and Recommended Transfer Programs …………… 22

- 3 -

.20 Off-Campus Programs ……………….………………………………….. 23

.21 Closed Sites …… ………………………………………………………… 24

.22 Distance Education ………………………………………………………. 25

.23 Consultant Review ………………………………………………………. 27

.24 Degree Programs ………………………………………………………… 28

.25 Certificate Programs ……………………………………………………… 31

.26 Health Occupation Shortage and Statewide Programs …………………. 33

.27 Steps in the Program Review Process …………………………………… 34

.28 Review by the Commission ………………………………………………… 36

- 4 -

TITLE 13B

MARYLAND HIGHER EDUCATION COMMISSION

SUBTITLE 02 ACADEMIC REGULATIONS

Chapter 03 Academic Programs – Degree-Granting Institutions

13B.02.03.01

.01 Scope.

This chapter sets forth requirements for program development by all institutions of

higher education, including public, independent, private for-profit, 2-year, and 4-year

institutions.

13B.02.03.02

.02 Definitions.

A. In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

B. Terms Defined.

(1) "Area of concentration" means a sequential arrangement of courses within a

program that:

(a) At the bachelor’s level is at least 24 semester credit hours;

(b) At the master’s level is at least 12 semester credit hours above the

bachelor’s degree; and

degree.

(2) "Articulation system (ARTSYS)" means a computerized data information

system created to facilitate the transfer of students from Maryland community colleges to

the University System of Maryland and other participating institutions.

(3) "Certificate" includes:

(a) Lower division certificate;

(b) Upper division certificate;

(d) Post-master's certificate;

(e) Professional certificate;

- 5 -

(f) Certificate of advanced study; and

(g) Directed Technology Certificate.

(4) "Commission" means the Maryland Higher Education Commission.

(5) “Degree” includes:

(a) Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.);

(b) Associate of Arts (A.A.);

(d) Associate of Fine Arts (A.F.A.);

(e) Associate of Science (A.S.);

(f) Associate of Science in Engineering (A.S.E.);

(g) Bachelor of Arts (B.A.);

(h) Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.);

(i) Bachelor of Professional Studies (B.P.S.);

(j) Bachelor of Science (B.S.);

(k) Bachelor of Technical Studies (B.T.S.);

(l) Master’s; and

(n) Doctorate.

(6) “Distance education” means course work taught by an institution through

electronic distribution of instruction to a site other than the principal location of the

institution, and advertised or described as leading to the formal award of a certificate or

degree.

(7) “Distance education program” means:

(a) For an institution of higher education other than a community college, a

program in which more than 50 percent of the program is offered through electronic

distribution of instruction to one or more sites other than the principal location of an

institution; or

(b) For a community college, a program in which more than 50 percent of the

program is offered through electronic distribution of instruction outside the community

college service area.

- 6 -

(8) "Formal award" means a certificate or degree granted in recognition of

successful completion of the requirements of a program, conferred by the faculty and

ratified by an institution's governing board.

(9) “Historically black institution (HBI)” means a Maryland public historically black

institution, including Bowie State University, Coppin State University, Morgan State

University, and University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

(10) “Independent institution” means a private nonprofit institution of higher

education.

(11) “In-State institution” means an institution of higher education whose primary

campus is in Maryland and whose authority to grant degrees is conferred by Maryland.

(12) “Institution of higher education” means an institution of postsecondary

education that generally limits enrollment to graduates of secondary schools, and awards

degrees at the associate, bachelor’s, or graduate level.

(13) "Internship" means a supervised work experience or field placement in a

student's program.

(14) "Joint degree" means a single degree offered by two or more institutions

bearing the name and seal of each in which all cooperating institutions are substantively

involved in required course work, faculty exchange, and shared use of facilities.

(15) Off-Campus Program.

(a) "Off-campus program" means, for institutions other than community

colleges:

(i) A program in which more than 1/3 of the required course work leading to

a bachelor’s degree or a certificate beyond the bachelor's level is offered by an institution

at a location other than the principal location of the institution during any 12-month period;

(ii) Course work offered at a location other than the principal location of an

institution that is advertised as leading to a degree or a certificate beyond the bachelor's

level at that location, regardless of the portion of a program offered at that location.

(b) "Off-campus program" means, for community colleges, course work offered

outside the community college service area.

(16) "Parallel program" means a program at a community college and a program at

a public 4-year institution of higher education having comparable objectives.

(17) "Primary degree" means a single degree offered by one institution having

responsibility for at least 2/3 of the course requirements in which cooperating institutions

participate by the appropriate and complementary addition of courses, faculty, and

facilities intended to complete the degree requirements of the primary institution.

- 7 -

(18) “Private for-profit institution” means a privately owned and operated institution

of higher education that is intended to operate as a business.

(19) "Program" means a course of study requiring the completion of a specified

number of semester credit hours from among a prescribed group of courses that leads to a

formal award.

(20) “Program proposal” means a submission for a new program or substantial

modification for review in the form and manner required by the Secretary.

(21) "Recommended transfer program (RTP)" means a program including both

general education and courses in a major, taken at a community college, that is:

(a) Applicable to a bachelor’s degree at a 4-year institution; and

(b) Ordinarily the first two years of the bachelor’s degree.

(22) "Secretary" means the Secretary of Higher Education.

(23) "Segment" means:

(a) The University System of Maryland;

(b) Morgan State University;

(d) The Maryland Independent College and University Association;

(e) The Maryland Association of Private Colleges and Career Schools; and

(f) The Maryland Association of Community Colleges.

(24) "State Plan" means the document entitled Maryland State Plan for

Postsecondary Education.

(25) “Substantial modification” means a major change in an existing program or

area of concentration.

(26) "Undergraduate major" means, varying by degree program and subject area:

(a) A minimum of 30 semester credit hours, 1/2 of which must be upper-

divisional credit, in one field or in an interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary field; and

(b) A coherent, sequential, and integrated program of study-in-depth which is

intended to provide:

(i) A body of knowledge;

(ii) Methods of study; and

- 8 -

(iii) Practice appropriate to a subject area.

13B.02.03.02-1

.02-1 Program Review Fees.

A. Except as provided in section C of this regulation, each institution of higher

education shall pay an academic program review fee for each program review action as

provided in this regulation.

B. The following schedule sets forth the fees for academic program review actions.

Category

Actions Covered

Fee

No Fee

- Articulation Agreement

-Code Change

-Request for Proposal from Community College

Nominal Fee

- Discontinue Program

-Suspend Program

- Reactivate Program

- Change Program Title

- Non-Substantial Program Change

- Substantial Change to Area of Concentration

- Substantial Change to Certificate Program

$50

Modest Fee

- New Area of Concentration

New Certificate Program Within an Existing

Program

- Closed Site Approval

- Statewide and Health Manpower Designations

- Substantial Change to Degree Program

- Off-Campus Program

$250

Substantial Fee

- New Stand-Alone Certificate Program

- New Academic Program

- BTPS Program

- Cooperative Degree Program

- New Academic Program at Approved Out-of-State

Institution Within a Non-Renewal Year

$850

New Degree

Level Fee

- New Degree Level Approval

$5,000 for up to

two degree

programs plus

$1,000 for each

degree program

over two

programs

C. An institution of higher education requesting a program review action related to a

program offered at a regional higher education center is exempt from payment of an

academic program review fee.

- 9 -

13B.02.03.03

.03 Statutory Authority of the Commission Regarding Academic Program Review,

Approval, and Recommendation.

A. The Commission shall review program proposals for public institutions, independent

institutions, and private for-profit institutions of higher education.

B. For public institutions, the Commission shall review and approve or disapprove

program proposals for:

(1) New programs; and

(2) Substantial modifications.

C. For independent institutions and private for-profit institutions, the Commission shall

review and recommend or not recommend implementation of program proposals for:

(1) New programs; and

(2) Substantial modifications.

D. An institution shall submit a program proposal for a new program to establish:

(1) A program leading to a formal award in a subject area in which the award is not

presently authorized;

(2) A program in a subject area in which a formal award is offered at a different

degree level (for example, an institution awards a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in chemistry

and wishes to award a Master of Science (M.S.) in chemistry, or an institution wishes to

offer an associate degree in addiction counseling, but currently offers only a lower-division

certificate in addiction counseling);

(3) A new undergraduate major by combining course work offered in two or more

existing programs (for example, an institution wishes to offer a program in biochemistry by

permitting students to combine course work offered in its current programs in biology and

in chemistry); or

(4) A formal award of a different type in a subject matter area in which another

formal award at the same level is already offered (for example, an institution awards the

Master of Science in Management (M.S.) and wishes to offer a Master of Business

Administration (M.B.A.), or an institution awards an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

and wishes to offer an Associate of Arts (A.A.) or Associate of Science (A.S.)).

E. An institution shall submit a program proposal for a substantial modification to:

(1) Change more than 33 percent of an existing program’s course work;

(2) Convert more than 50 percent of a program previously approved for offering in

a distance education format to a classroom or site-based learning format, or convert more

- 10 -

than 50 percent of a program previously approved for offering in a classroom or site-based

learning format to a distance education format;

(3) Offer an existing program as an off-campus program;

(4) Establish a new area of concentration within an existing program (for example,

an institution offers a program in psychology and wishes to add a new area of

concentration in employee assistance training, or an institution offers a program in mental

health and wishes to offer a new area of concentration in addiction counseling); or

(5) Establish a new program title within an approved program (for example, an

institution offers a program in human resources and wishes to offer a program in human

resources management).

F. Program Review Process.

(1) If the Commission fails to act on a program proposal within 60 days after the

submission of the program proposal to the Commission, the program is officially approved

without any further action of the Commission.

(2) If the Commission disapproves or does not recommend a proposal, the

Commission shall provide to the institution's governing board a written explanation of the

reasons for the disapproval or non-recommendation.

(3) After revising a proposal to address the Commission's reasons for disapproval

or non-recommendation, the governing body may resubmit the revised proposal to the

Commission in accordance with the schedule in Regulation.27 of this chapter, thereby

triggering a new 60-day time frame for Commission action.

G. Implementation of Programs.

(1) A public institution may not implement a program without the prior approval of

the Commission.

(2) Implementation of Program by Independent Institution.

(a) If an independent institution has implemented a new program or a

substantial modification contrary to the non-recommendation of the Commission that was

based on a finding of unreasonable duplication, the Commission may recommend that the

General Assembly reduce the institution's appropriation by the amount of aid associated

with the full-time equivalent enrollment in that program.

(b) The provision in subsection (2)(a) of this section does not preclude the

independent institution from implementing the new program or substantial modification.

institution may apply annually to the Commission for reconsideration of the program

review decision.

(3) A private for-profit institution may implement a program notwithstanding the

non-recommendation of the Commission.

- 11 -

(4) If an independent institution or a private for-profit institution implements a

program despite a recommendation from the Commission that the program not be

implemented, the institution shall notify both prospective students of the program and

enrolled students in the program that the program has not been recommended for

implementation by the Commission.

H. Program Suspension.

(1) An institution may temporarily suspend a program and examine its future

direction.

(2) During a period of program suspension, an institution has the opportunity to:

(a) Study its future commitment to a particular field of study; and

(b) Determine whether the program should be:

(i) Maintained in present form;

(ii) Consolidated with other program offerings; or

(iii) Discontinued.

(3) The suspension of a program relieves an institution from having to submit a

program proposal to the Commission to reactivate a discontinued program.

(4) Criteria and Process for Program Suspension.

(a) A program may be suspended for a period of time not to exceed 3 years.

(b) The catalog and other official publications shall indicate the official status of

the program.

suspension.

(d) Currently enrolled students shall be given the opportunity to satisfy degree

requirements.

(e) Before suspending a program, the institution shall notify the Secretary in

writing.

(f) After a 3-year period, the institution shall either discontinue or reactivate the

program and notify the Secretary in writing.

I. The Commission does not review a program proposed for discontinuance by an

institution. However, an institution shall provide written notice to the Commission in

advance of a program’s discontinuance.

- 12 -

13B.02.03.04

.04 Delegation of Program Responsibility.

A. The Commission has delegated to the Secretary the responsibility and authority to

act in its behalf on program proposals for new programs and substantial modifications

submitted by institutions of higher education operating in Maryland under Education

Article, §11-206 and §11-206.1, Annotated Code of Maryland.

B. Delegation subject to conditions and limitations.

(1) The Secretary shall prepare and present a report to the Commission at each

meeting summarizing all actions taken since the prior report, and the report may include:

(a) The name of the program proposal or articulation agreement;

(b) The degree to be offered;

(d) The relationship to institutional and segment role and mission;

(e) The relationship to the goals, objectives, and initiatives of the State Plan;

and

(f) The disposition of the program proposal.

(2) If the Secretary approves, disapproves, recommends for, or recommends

against a program proposal, the proposing or objecting institutions are entitled, on request,

to have the matter reviewed by the Commission in accordance with the Commission's

procedures in Regulation .28 of this chapter.

(3) The Secretary shall report to the Commission every two years on programs

experiencing low productivity.

13B.02.03.05

.05 Long-Term Goals.

Four long-term goals, quality, access and choice, accountability, and HBI

enhancement, guide the Commission's program approval responsibilities, with each goal

having the following focus:

A. Quality shall focus on the effectiveness of institutional actions, including:

(1) The extent to which an institution fulfills its stated mission;

(2) The centrality of a proposed program to the institution's approved mission;

and

- 13 -

(3) The adherence of a proposed program to commonly accepted standards of

academic practice as found in Regulation .06 of this chapter;

B. Access and choice for Maryland citizens to higher education shall focus on the

needs of citizens for higher education programs, services, and research, including:

(1) Financial assistance;

(2) Transferability of credit;

(3) Economic development;

(4) Equal opportunity concerns; and

(5) Expansion of educational opportunities and choices for minority and

educationally disadvantaged students at institutions of higher education;

C. Accountability shall focus on whether there is a comprehensive set of reliable

and valid indicators, appropriate to the mission of the institution, which can assess an

institution's effectiveness in delivering the proposed program; and

D. HBI enhancement shall focus on whether the proposed program advances the

expansion of mission, program uniqueness, or institutional identity at HBIs.

13B.02.03.06

.06 Criteria for Program Review.

A program proposal shall address the following areas:

A. Centrality to mission and planning priorities, relationship to the program emphasis

as outlined in the mission statements, and an institutional priority for program

development;

B. Critical and compelling regional or Statewide need as identified in the State Plan;

C. Quantifiable and reliable evidence and documentation of market supply and

demand in the region and service area;

D. Reasonableness of program duplication, if any;

E. Relevance to the implementation or maintenance of high-demand programs at

HBIs;

F. Relevance to the support of the uniqueness and institutional identities and missions

of HBIs;

G. Adequacy of curriculum design and delivery to related learning outcomes consistent

with Regulation .10 of this chapter;

- 14 -

H. Adequacy of library resources;

I. Adequacy of faculty resources consistent with Regulation .11 of this chapter;

J. Adequacy of library resources consistent with Regulation .12 of this chapter;

K. Adequacy of physical facilities, infrastructure, and instructional equipment

consistent with Regulation .13 of this chapter;

L. Adequacy of financial resources with documentation consistent with Regulation .14

of this chapter;

M. Adequacy of provisions for evaluation of program consistent with Regulation .15 of

this chapter;

N. Consistency with the Commission's minority student achievement goals; and

O. Relationship to low productivity programs identified by the Commission.

13B.02.03.07

.07 Mission and Planning Priorities.

A. A program proposal submitted by an institution that is central to the institution's

mission statement is eligible for approval or recommendation for implementation.

B. A proposed program shall be:

(1) Central to the institution’s mission;

(2) Related to the program emphasis as outlined in the mission statement; and

(3) An institutional priority for program development consistent with the institution’s

strategic planning process.

13B.02.03.08

.08 Need for the Proposed Program.

A. A proposed program shall meet a critical and compelling regional or Statewide need

as identified in the State Plan.

B. A program proposal shall clearly demonstrate demand and need for the program in

terms of meeting present and future needs of the region and the State in general. Four

kinds of needs may be identified:

(1) The need for the advancement and evolution of knowledge;

(2) Societal needs, including expanding educational opportunities and choices for

minority and educationally disadvantaged students at institutions of higher education;

- 15 -

(3) Occupational and professional needs relative to upgrading vocational/ technical

skills or meeting job market requirements; and

(4) The need to strengthen and expand the capacity of historically black institutions

to provide high quality and unique educational programs.

C. The Commission recognizes and supports the tradition of liberal arts education and

the need for programs that offer individual and societal benefits independent of manpower

or market demand considerations. These programs provide immeasurable returns to the

State in part by instilling in citizens a capacity for advanced learning and an understanding

of the fundamentals of civilization.

D. Market Demand Data.

(1) This section does not apply to programs in the liberal arts and sciences.

(2) An institution proposing a new program shall present data projecting market

demand and the availability of openings in the job market to be served by the new

program. The types of information submitted vary, depending on the program, but may

include manpower and employment projections prepared by the Maryland Department of

Labor, Licensing, and Regulation, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Census Data, and the

Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development as well as professional

and trade associations.

(3) An institution shall conduct market surveys that clearly provide quantifiable and

reliable data from prospective employers on the educational and training needs and the

anticipated number of vacancies expected over the next 5 years.

(4) In assessing demand for a new program, an institution shall also present data

showing the current and projected supply of prospective graduates.

E. Identification of Programs Having Market Demand.

(1) The Commission shall identify, on a regular basis, programs that are in market

demand in Maryland.

(2) For each program identified, the Commission shall also provide an indication of

minority participation rates, identifying those programs where minorities are

underrepresented.

(3) Institutions maintaining a role and mission appropriate and consistent with

those fields declared as shortage areas are encouraged to develop specific programs.

(4) Proposals submitted in response to a declared shortage area do not need to

include additional documentation on market demand and supply data.

F. As an additional indicator of need, an institution shall clearly detail how program

success will be defined and measured, particularly if the definition includes measures in

addition to the conferral of a degree or certificate.

- 16 -

13B.02.03.09

.09 Duplication of the Proposed Program.

A. The elimination of unreasonable program duplication is a high priority. Ordinarily,

proposed programs in undergraduate core programs consisting of basic liberal arts and

sciences disciplines are not considered unnecessarily duplicative. Unreasonable

duplication is a more specific concern in vocational/technical, occupational, graduate, and

professional programs which meet special manpower needs. The issue of how a proposed

program meets an institution's local and State area needs shall be addressed.

B. Evidence demonstrating that a proposed program is not duplicative of similar

offerings in the State shall be submitted by the institution. At a minimum, this evidence

shall be substantiated on the basis that the proposed program to be offered is not

unreasonably duplicative of existing programs in a specific geographically proximate

location in the State.

C. Determination of Duplication.

(1) In determining whether a program is unreasonably duplicative, the Secretary

shall consider:

(a) The degree to be awarded;

(b) The area of specialization;

(d) The specific academic content of the program;

(e) Evidence of equivalent competencies of the proposed program in

comparison to existing programs; and

(f) An analysis of the market demand for the program.

(2) The analysis shall include an examination of factors, including:

(a) Role and mission;

(b) Accessibility;

(d) Analysis of enrollment characteristics;

(e) Residency requirements;

(f) Admission requirements; and

(g) Educational justification for the dual operation of programs broadly

similar to unique or high-demand programs at HBIs.

- 17 -

13B.02.03.10

.10 Adequacy of Curriculum Design and Related Learning Outcomes.

A. The presence of a structured and coherent program of study with clearly delineated

program objectives and intended student learning outcomes shall be evident.

B. Required courses in the program may not be excessive and shall be consistent with

customary expectations for the type of certificate or degree proposed.

C. The general education courses shall be distributed in a manner consistent with

COMAR 13B.02.02.16.E and F.

D. Accreditation requirements; conditional approval.

(1) If a professional must graduate from a program with specialized accreditation,

certification, or approval to practice in the State, the program must meet all appropriate

accreditation, certification, or approval standards.

(2) The Secretary may grant conditional approval for a program that fails to meet

the standards specified in subsection (1) of this section if the institution begins the process

of securing appropriate accreditation, certification, or approval.

(3) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, the Secretary’s conditional

approval shall be revoked if an institution fails to secure appropriate accreditation,

certification, or approval for the program within a time frame consistent with the relevant

approval process.

(4) The Secretary may extend conditional approval if the institution has made

substantial progress in securing appropriate accreditation, certification, or approval for the

program.

E. If an institution contracts for instructional services in the State, to be provided by

another institution or a non-collegiate organization, these services shall be based on a

written contract that provides for institutional control over the quality of the curriculum,

instructional staffing, instructional support services, and the integrity of enrollment policies.

13B.02.03.11

.11 Faculty Resources.

A. Faculty resources shall be consistent with COMAR 13B.02.02.17 and shall be

adequate and appropriate for a proposed program, taking into consideration the

institution's mission and the character of the program to be developed.

B. The minimum educational attainment of the faculty shall be the appropriate degree

commensurate with the degree level of the proposed program.

C. The doctorate is the appropriate terminal degree for bachelor’s and graduate

programs; however, the Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) or another professional degree may

be adequate and appropriate for the proposed program.

- 18 -

D. If specialized accreditation or State licensure is an expectation, the number of

terminal degree holders shall meet the minimum requirements of the appropriate

accrediting association or licensing agency.

E. Programs shall involve credentialed full-time faculty in teaching, program

development, and student academic support.

F. Adjunct and part-time faculty are an important and necessary component of some

programs. Except in circumstances to be determined by the Secretary, at least 50 percent

of the total semester credit hours within the proposed program shall be taught by full-time

faculty.

G. Adjunct and part-time faculty shall:

(1) Possess the same or equivalent qualifications as the full-time faculty of the

institution; and

(2) Be approved by the academic unit through which the credit is offered.

13B.02.03.12

.12 Library Resources.

A. Library resources shall be consistent with COMAR 13B.02.02.18 and appropriate to

support the proposed program, whether it is to be offered on-site or at an off-campus

location.

B. Appropriate library resources may be achieved through one or more of the

following:

(1) On-site collections;

(2) Interlibrary loans; or

(3) Computerized access to holdings in other in-State or out-of-State libraries.

C. When formal, cooperative arrangements with other institutions are required to

ensure students' access to library holdings, these shall be discussed and accompanied by

letters of agreement.

13B.02.03.13

.13 Physical Facilities and Instructional Equipment.

A. For new programs offered at an institution’s principal location, the institution shall

ensure that:

(1) Physical facilities, infrastructure, and instructional equipment are consistent with

COMAR 13B.02.02.20, and adequate to initiate the new program;

(2) Spaces are provided for classrooms and for staff and faculty offices; and

- 19 -

(3) Laboratories for studies in the technologies and sciences are designed to

provide maximum utilization of facilities, materials, and equipment.

B. An institution offering courses off-campus that require laboratory facilities,

specialized equipment such as computer terminals and audiovisual aids, or other special

resources shall ensure that appropriate facilities and instructional equipment requirements

are met.

13B.02.03.14

.14 Finances.

A. The resource requirements of a program shall be consistent with COMAR

13B.02.02.21, and analyzed by the Commission in order to assess the adequacy of the

sources of funds to support a quality program. This analysis shall:

(1) Ensure that the program will be efficient in its resource utilization; and

(2) Assess the impact of the program on the institution's overall need for funds.

B. The institution shall complete forms supplied by the Commission concerning

resource categories and expenditure categories:

(1) In sufficient detail to permit the Secretary to make a judgment on the adequacy

of resources; and

(2) With narrative explanation accompanying the entries in the tables.

C. The proposed program shall be supported by at least one of the following sources

of funds:

(1) Reallocation of existing campus resources, including the discontinuance or

downsizing of an existing program or organizational unit;

(2) Tuition and fee revenue from students new to the institution enrolling in the new

program;

(3) Grants and contracts; or

(4) Sources, other than those in subsections (1), (2), and (3) of this section,

specifically designated for the program, with backup information and documentation of

these resources provided with the proposal.

- 20 -

13B.02.03.15

.15 Adequacy of Provisions for Evaluation of Programs.

A. An institution shall set forth instructional supervision and evaluation procedures for

each program. These procedures may include evaluation of courses and faculty by

students, administrators, and departmental personnel.

B. Curriculum review procedures established by an institution for its program offerings

shall:

(1) Include standards and guidelines for the assessment of student outcomes as

defined for the program;

(2) Be consistent with the institutional mission; and

(3) Be specified by the institution.

13B.02.03.16

.16 Minority Student Access.

An institution shall set forth appropriate actions and strategies to recruit and retain

underrepresented minority students for each new program consistent with:

A. Provisions of the State Plan regarding minority student access; and

B. The institution’s program of cultural diversity.

13B.02.03.17

.17 Low Productivity Programs.

A. Every two years, the Commission shall identify low productivity programs at public

institutions.

B. If an identified low productivity program is directly related to a proposed new

program, in its program proposal the institution shall address:

(1) The fiscal resources, including faculty, administration, library resources, and

general operating expenses, currently devoted to the low productivity program; and

(2) How those resources may be redistributed to help fund the proposed new

program.

13B.02.03.18

.18 Cooperative Programs.

A. The Commission encourages institutions to:

- 21 -

(1) Explore the opportunities for cooperation with other institutions, within a

segment and between segments, offering similar programs; and

(2) Document the extent to which cooperative arrangements have been explored.

B. An institution considering a new program or a substantial modification is

encouraged to explore cooperative development of these program initiatives.

C. The institution shall follow cooperative degree program guidelines developed by the

Commission to assist institutions in establishing these programs.

D. Cooperative programs shall be designated as belonging to one of the degree

program categories in this regulation.

E. Requirements for Joint Degree Programs.

(1) Two or more institutions may offer a joint degree program in which the

cooperating institutions are substantively involved in required course work, faculty

exchange, and shared use of facilities.

(2) A student enrolled in a joint degree program shall receive a single diploma that

bears the names and seals of all cooperating institutions.

(3) The proposed program shall be planned by representatives from each

cooperating institution. Identical proposals for each institution shall go through the normal

program approval procedures for the institutions and segments, including formal approval

and recognition by each governing board.

(4) A memorandum of understanding between or among cooperating institutions

shall be included when the program proposal is submitted.

(5) Each institution is responsible for designating a program director. The program

directors shall inform each other as they administer the program, select or assign faculty,

set common admissions standards, coordinate curriculum modifications, monitor

operations, plan budgets, write grants, and establish joint library purchases.

(6) Distribution of course work in the major field of study is based on programmatic

requirements and the respective strengths of cooperating institutions. The ideal

arrangement approximates an even division of curriculum responsibilities between or

among the cooperating institutions. The proposed degree shall be consistent with the

institutional mission as it is outlined in the State Plan.

(7) An arrangement shall exist for recruiting and admitting students and for

administration of student support services in joint degree programs.

(8) A mechanism shall exist for monitoring and evaluating programs, with

provisions for participation by faculty, students, and administrators from each institution

involved.

F. Requirements for Primary Degree Programs.

- 22 -

(1) One or more institutions may offer a primary degree program.

(2) The diploma shall be awarded by the primary institution.

(3) The program shall be planned by the institution awarding the degree. However,

the institution designated as primary assumes responsibility for ensuring the involvement

of other institutions of higher education having particular and complementary strengths in

the same or similar program area. The program proposal shall show the actual

involvement of other institutions of higher education in such areas as course work, faculty,

and facilities.

(4) A memorandum of understanding between or among cooperating institutions

shall be included when the program proposal is submitted.

(5) The primary institution shall offer at least 2/3 of the course requirements. The

proposed degree shall be consistent with the institutional mission as it is outlined in the

State Plan. Other institutions may participate by the appropriate and complementary

addition of courses, faculty, and facilities.

(6) Students shall be matriculated at the primary institution as degree candidates in

accordance with the policies for degree completion requirements at that institution.

Advising and other student services shall be provided by the primary institution but this

does not preclude appropriate involvement in these areas by the cooperating institution.

(7) The primary institution is responsible for all administrative functions associated

with the program, including communication and relationships with the cooperating

institutions.

(8) The primary institution is responsible for the continuing evaluation of the

program in accordance with institutional policies. The evaluation process shall provide an

opportunity for the involvement of representatives from cooperating institutions, as

appropriate.

13B.02.03.19

.19. Parallel Programs and Recommended Transfer Programs.

A. Community colleges and public 4-year institutions of higher education may have

parallel programs that have comparable objectives. For example, a transfer program in

psychology in a community college is considered a parallel program to a bachelor’s

program in psychology at a public 4-year institution of higher education.

B. If a parallel program exists at a community college and a public 4-year institution,

the public 4-year institution’s program proposal shall provide evidence that:

(1)The recommended transfer program (RTP) is developed and will be

disseminated in cooperation with the community college; and

(2) The RTPs are available to students through ARTSYS or in written form.

- 23 -

C. A recommended transfer program (RTP) shall consist of a program that includes

both general education and courses in the undergraduate major, taken at a community

college, that are:

(1) Applicable to a bachelor’s degree at a public 4-year institution; and

(2) Ordinarily the first two years of the bachelor’s degree.

D. In order to foster articulation with K-12, community colleges shall also identify

parallel curricula to secondary schools.

13B.02.03.20

.20 Off-Campus Programs.

A. An off-campus program may be approved only if there is already an existing on-

campus program.

B. A program proposal for an off-campus program shall be submitted by the institution

to the Commission and contain the following information regarding need and demand for

extending the program and the impact the program may have on similar programs that

may exist in the region:

(1) The title of the program and the degree or certificate to be awarded;

(2) The resource requirements for the program and the source of funds to support

the program for the first 2 years of program implementation;

(3) The need and demand for the program in terms of:

(a) Specific local, State, and national needs for graduates;

(b) Job opportunities that are available to those who complete the program;

and

surveys that have recently been conducted;

(4) A description of the following, if a similar program is offered within the same

geographical region of the State:

(a) Similarities or differences in the degree to be awarded;

(b) Area of specialization; and

(5) A description of the method of instructional delivery, including distance

education, on-site faculty, and the mix of full-time and part-time instructors; and

- 24 -

(6) A brief description of the academic oversight, quality control, and student

services to be provided.

C. An institution offering an off-campus program shall provide for adequate and

appropriate library resources within reasonable distance of the instructional site or through

institution-sponsored electronic collections and databases.

D. Faculty.

(1) Students shall be taught by qualified faculty with appropriate experience.

(2)At least 1/3 of the classes offered in an off-campus program shall be taught by

full-time faculty of the parent institution.

E. An off-campus program shall:

(1) Be complete and coherent;

(2) Provide for either real-time interaction or delayed interaction between faculty

and students and among students;

(3) Provide appropriate oversight of the program offered by qualified faculty from

the parent institution; and

(4) Provide enrolled students with reasonable and adequate access to the range of

academic and support services appropriate to support their learning, including academic

advising, counseling, library and other learning resources, and financial aid.

F. An institution has responsibility for:

(1) Evaluating the program's educational effectiveness, student learning outcomes,

student retention, and student and faculty satisfaction; and

(2) Providing to faculty with professional development activities, appropriate

training, and other support.

13B.02.03.21

.21 Closed Sites.

A. An in-State institution maintaining full and unconditional accreditation from an

accrediting association recognized by the United States Department of Education and

approval from the Commission may respond to the request of a sponsoring agent to offer

a previously approved program at an off-campus site selected by the sponsoring agent

solely for the sponsoring agent’s employees by submitting a letter of notification to the

Secretary.

B. A letter of notification shall describe the program and affirm that there is access to

library resources and faculty consistent with the scope and nature of the offerings.

- 25 -

C. A program may be offered through traditional means as well as through various

distance education formats.

D. General Public.

(1) The general public may not be recruited or admitted to these programs.

(2) If an institution elects to open the program beyond the sponsoring agent’s

designated employees, the Commission's policies and procedures for off-campus

programs apply.

13B.02.03.22

.22 Distance Education.

A. The Commission shall review a distance education program proposal under the

criteria established in Regulation .06 of this chapter.

B. A program proposal for a distance education program shall be submitted by the

institution to the Commission before implementation and contain the following information:

(1) The title of the program and the degree or certificate to be awarded;

(2) The resource requirements for the program and the source of funds to support

the program for the first 2 years of program implementation;

(3) The need and demand for the program in terms of:

(a) Specific local, State, and national needs for graduates;

(b) Job opportunities that are available to those who complete the program;

and

surveys that have recently been conducted;

(4) If a similar program is offered within the State, a description of:

(a) Similarities or differences in the degree to be awarded;

(b) Area of specialization; and

(5) A description of the method of instructional delivery; and

(6) A brief description of the academic oversight, quality control, and student

services to be provided.

C. Principles of Good Practice.

- 26 -

(1) This section applies to distance education and distance education programs

offered by an institution of higher education operating in this State that is required to have

a certificate of approval from the Commission under chapter .01 or .02 of this subtitle.

(2) An institution shall provide evidence to the Secretary of compliance with the

principles of good practice in this section.

(3) Principles of Good Practice for Distance Education.

(a) Curriculum and Instruction.

(i) A distance education program shall be established and overseen by

qualified faculty.

(ii) A program’s curriculum shall be coherent, cohesive, and comparable in

academic rigor to programs offered in traditional instructional formats.

(iii) A program shall result in learning outcomes appropriate to the rigor and

breadth of the program.

(iv) A program shall provide for appropriate real-time or delayed interaction

between faculty and students.

(v) Faculty members in appropriate disciplines in collaboration with other

institutional personnel shall participate in the design of courses offered through a distance

education program.

(b) Role and Mission.

(i) A distance education program shall be consistent with the institution's

mission.

(ii) Review and approval processes shall ensure the appropriateness of the

technology being used to meet a program's objectives.

(i) An institution shall provide for training for faculty who teach with the use

of technology in a distance education format, including training in the learning

management system and the pedagogy of distance education.

(ii) Principles of best practice for teaching in a distance education format

shall be developed and maintained by the faculty.

(iii) An institution shall provide faculty support services specifically related to

teaching through a distance education format.

(d) An institution shall ensure that appropriate learning resources are available

to students including appropriate and adequate library services and resources.

(e) Students and Student Services.

- 27 -

(i) A distance education program shall provide students with clear,

complete, and timely information on the curriculum, course and degree requirements,

nature of faculty/student interaction, assumptions about technology competence and skills,

technical equipment requirements, learning management system, availability of academic

support services and financial aid resources, and costs and payment policies.

(ii) Enrolled students shall have reasonable and adequate access to the

range of student services to support their distance education activities.

(iii) Accepted students shall have the background, knowledge, and

technical skills needed to undertake a distance education program.

(iv) Advertising, recruiting, and admissions materials shall clearly and

accurately represent the program and the services available.

(f) Commitment to Support.

(i) Policies for faculty evaluation shall include appropriate consideration of

teaching and scholarly activities related to distance education programs.

(ii) An institution shall demonstrate a commitment to ongoing support, both

financial and technical, and to continuation of a program for a period sufficient to enable

students to complete a degree or certificate.

(g) Evaluation and Assessment.

(i) An institution shall evaluate a distance education program's educational

effectiveness, including assessments of student learning outcomes, student retention,

student and faculty satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness.

(ii) An institution shall demonstrate an evidence-based approach to best

online teaching practices.

(iii) An institution shall provide for assessment and documentation of

student achievement of learning outcomes in a distance education program.

13B.02.03.23

.23 Consultant Review.

A. In reviewing a program proposal, Commission staff shall discuss the proposal with

institutional or segmental personnel involved with the program.

B. If the Secretary determines that additional expertise is needed to evaluate a

program, the Secretary may retain one or more outside consultants.

C. The Secretary and the institutional or segmental administrators shall agree on the

selection of a consultant and on an appropriate time frame.

D. The proposing institution is responsible for the costs incurred for a consultant's

work.

- 28 -

E. For an on-site visit, an institutional or segmental representative shall join the team

as a resource person.

13B.02.03.24

.24 Degree Programs.

A. Degree Levels.

(1) The degree levels described in this regulation are available to institutions in this

State, as approved in accordance with COMAR 13B.02.02.10.

(2) Public community colleges and senior public higher education institutions shall

comply with the credit hour standards of COMAR 13B.02.02.16A(1) and B(1).

B. Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.).

(1) An institution may award an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree for

successful completion of not less than 60 and not more than 70 credit hours in vocational-

technical occupational skills, including law enforcement, computer technology, and

engineering technology.

(2) The program is intended for a student seeking immediate employment

opportunities. However, the program does not preclude a student from transferring to a

technical bachelor’s degree program such as a bachelor's degree in technology or a

bachelor's degree in technical or professional studies, or from transferring non-technical

courses to a 4-year institution.

C. Associate of Arts (A.A.).

(1) An institution may award an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree for successful

completion of not less than 60 and not more than 70 credit hours in the liberal arts (social

sciences, humanities, and similar subjects) and in the fine arts (music, art, etc.).

(2) The program is intended for transfer to an equivalent Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

degree program at 4-year institutions.

D. An institution may award an Associate of Art in Teaching (A.A.T.) degree that:

(1) Meets the lower-level degree academic content, outcomes, and requirements

for teacher education, similar to the first 2 years of a bachelor’s program in teacher

education;

(2) Requires evidence of qualifying scores as established by the State

Superintendent of Schools on the teacher certification tests approved by the State Board

of Education;

(3) Requires a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.75 on a 4.00 scale; and

- 29 -

(4) If achieved, transfers up to 64 credit hours, satisfying all lower-division teacher

education program outcomes without further review by in-State 4-year public and

independent institutions.

E. An institution may award an Associate of Fine Arts (A.F.A.) degree for successful

completion of not less than 60 and not more than 70 credit hours in the professional arts in

programs that:

(1) Have as a primary goal transfer to a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degree

program;

(2) Are similar to the first 2 years of a B.F.A. degree program; and

(3) Require at least 60 percent of the course credit to be in studio work and related

areas.

F. Associate of Science (A.S.)

(1) An institution may award an Associate of Science (A.S.) degree for successful

completion of not less than 60 and no more than 70 credit hours in science or technology

(engineering, agriculture, the natural sciences) with a heavy emphasis on undergraduate

mathematics or science.

(2) The program is intended for transfer to a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree

program at 4-year institutions.

G. Associate of Science in Engineering (A.S.E.).

(1) An institution may award an Associate of Science in Engineering (A.S.E.)

degree that:

(a) Meets the lower-level degree academic content, outcomes, and

requirements for engineering education, similar to the first 2 years of a bachelor’s parallel

program in engineering education;

(b) Requires at least a 2.0 on a 4.0 grade scale in all courses required by the

program in computer science, engineering, mathematics, and the physical and natural

sciences; and

in-State 4-year public and participating independent institutions into a bachelor’s parallel

program, except that transfer students may be treated like non-transfer students with

regard to credit hours earned through Advanced Placement (AP), International

Baccalaureate (IB), and transcripted credits.

(2) The Commission shall convene a continuous review committee for each A.S.E.

degree area, such as electrical engineering. Each continuous review committee shall be

composed of faculty with relevant expertise in that area of study from in-State 2-year and

4-year public and independent institutions with approved engineering programs.

- 30 -

(3) Outcomes for each A.S.E. degree area shall be reviewed by the appropriate

continuous review committee to ensure that outcomes are consistent with current

standards. The committees shall meet at least once a year for the purpose of conducting

this review.

(4) The president or president's designee of an in-State 4-year independent

institution that wishes to participate in the Statewide articulation agreement shall submit a

letter to the Secretary stating that the A.S.E. shall transfer to its institution without further

review or course-by-course match, except that credit hours earned through Advanced

Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or transcripted credit, may be treated as

they would be with non-transfer students at the institution.

H. An institution may award a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.), or

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree for successful completion of a program of 120 or more

undergraduate credit hours.

I. Bachelor of Technical Studies (B.T.S.) or Bachelor of Professional Studies (B.P.S.).

(1) An institution may award a Bachelor of Technical Studies (B.T.S.) or Bachelor

of Professional Studies (B.P.S.) degree of at least 120 credit hours awarded for the

successful completion of an A.A.S. degree, an advanced program of study in the

designated area of concentration, and a three-credit hour internship related to the

program.

(2) Under an articulated agreement, students who have completed an A.A.S.

degree may obtain a Bachelor of Technical Studies or a Bachelor of Professional Studies

in a related, specialized area of concentration at an institution with degree-granting

authority in this State. The area of concentration shall be specified by the institution

granting the Bachelor of Technical Studies or Bachelor of Professional Studies. The

receiving institution shall accept not less than 60 credit hours and not more than 64 credit

hours for the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree.

(3) The Commission shall provide information on technical or professional fields

that have graduated significant numbers of students and for which one or more community

colleges request an articulated bachelor of technical or bachelor of professional studies

degree. Institutions that wish to participate in developing a Bachelor of Technical Studies

or Bachelor of Professional Studies shall meet and develop a memorandum of

understanding. Participating institutions shall notify the Commission of their intent to

develop the new degree program.

(4) A memorandum of understanding shall be drafted and agreed to by institutions.

The memorandum of understanding shall address procedures for admissions, registration,

advising, student services, financial aid, tuition, and faculty resources. Programmatic and

degree requirements shall also be identified. The program shall include an internship

which encompasses specific competencies and is a minimum of three credit hours. The

program shall be made available at the principal location or other convenient locations, or

both. The program may also be delivered through distance education.

(5) The memorandum of understanding shall be submitted instead of a program

proposal.

- 31 -

J. An institution may award a Master's Degree for successful completion of at least 30

credit hours or the equivalent of graduate-level courses.

K. An institution may award a Doctoral Degree for the highest level of formal collegiate

study in a field, typically requiring successful completion of at least 60 credit hours or the

equivalent at the graduate level, including completion of a dissertation, final project, or

other form of culminating academic work.

13B.02.03.25

.25 Certificate Programs.

A. The following certificates are available to institutions in this State, as approved in

accordance with COMAR 13B.02.02.10.

B. An institution may award:

(1) A lower division certificate for successful completion of at least 12 semester

credit hours at the freshman or sophomore levels, or both.

(2) An upper division certificate for successful completion of at least 12 semester

credit hours at the junior or senior levels, or both.

(3) A post-baccalaureate certificate for successful completion of at least 12

semester credit hours at the graduate or upper divisional level, the majority of which are at

the master's or specialized postgraduate level.

(4) A post-master's certificate for successful completion of at least 12 semester

credit hours of graduate study beyond the master's degree.

(5) A certificate of advanced study for successful completion of at least 30

semester credit hours of graduate study beyond the master's degree.

(6) A professional certificate for successful completion of the number of courses

required by the appropriate national professional association.

C. Directed Technology Certificates.

(1) An institution may award a directed technology certificate for completion of a

specialized learning program developed by the institution specifically for employer training

needs at a closed site. A directed technology certificate is designed as a sequence of

courses that meets specific training objectives. Its purpose is to dramatically shorten the

start-up time for credit training programs and to provide a useful credentialing function for

those desiring a formal award. The certificate may be awarded for successfully earning at

least 12 semester credit hours, but no more than 24 semester credit hours.

(2) An institution shall provide a copy of the curriculum and evidence that:

(a) The curriculum for the certificate has been developed in consultation with a

specific employer or employers to meet specific training needs;

- 32 -

(b) The curriculum has been reviewed by the appropriate curriculum approval

bodies at the institution;

written documentation about the curriculum; and

(d) Financial resources are adequate to support the curriculum.

(3) The Secretary may grant approval to offer or may recommend offering of a

directed technology certificate program for a period of 3 years and may renew the

approval or recommendation after the third year on application by the institution.

(4) The president of the institution shall submit to the Secretary a letter of request

that responds to the requirements of this regulation. The review of a program proposal for

a directed technology certificate shall be processed and a decision made within 30 days

after it is submitted to the Secretary.

D. New Certificate in Existing Degree Programs.

(1) A program proposal for a new certificate in an existing degree program may be

made in a brief, one-page document that:

(a) Explains the centrality of the proposed certificate program to the mission of

the institution;

(b) Provides evidence of the market demand for the proposed certificate

program;

(d) Shows that adequate faculty resources exist for the proposed certificate

program.

(2) Favorable action on a completed program proposal by the Secretary constitutes

final program approval or endorsement.

(3) If the Secretary does not approve or recommend the program proposal, the

Secretary shall provide a written explanation of the reasons.

(4) Following the Secretary's decision on a proposed certificate program, an

institution may elect to:

(a) Revise a proposal to address the Secretary's reasons for disapproval or

non-recommendation and submit the revised proposal for reconsideration; or

(b) Have the matter reviewed by the Commission in accordance with the

appeal procedure in Regulation .27 of this chapter.

- 33 -

13B.02.03.26

.26 Health Occupation Shortage and Statewide Programs.

A. Health Occupation Shortage Programs.

(1) Any student who is a resident of this State and enrolls at a community college

in a program that the Commission has designated as a health occupation shortage

program, shall pay only the student tuition and fees payable by a resident of a county that

supports the community college, and the Commission shall pay any applicable out-of-

county fee.

(2) The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene shall determine which health

occupations are in short supply in the State and report the determinations to the

Commission. The Commission shall designate the eligible health occupation shortage

programs determined to be in short supply annually to the community colleges.

B. Statewide Programs.

(1) Community colleges have developed increasing numbers of specialized

technical programs designed to prepare students for immediate employment. Many of

these technical programs are offered at several community colleges because of large

student enrollment and high employment availability. With the development of an

increasing number of highly specialized technical programs, however, the duplication of

certain programs by neighboring colleges, or colleges within a geographical region, may

be prohibitively expensive to both the local political subdivision and the State.

(2) Statewide designation includes:

(a) Programs not available at the community college in the student's county of

residence; or

(b) Programs at the community college in the student's county of residence that

have reached the program's enrollment capacity and cannot enroll additional students

meeting the program's academic requirements.

(3) The Statewide designation process applies to both existing programs and new

programs. Upon endorsement by the local board of trustees, the requesting institution

shall petition the Secretary to designate the program as Statewide by responding to the

general criteria listed in §B(4) of this regulation. The program, if so designated, is eligible

for out-of-county tuition reimbursement by the State.

(4) The general criteria for Statewide designation are:

(a) Maximization of student access to programs;

(b) The ability of the college to accommodate additional students;

(d) The unit cost of the program;

- 34 -

(e) Uniqueness of the program; and

(f) Current labor market demand for graduates of the program in the region.

C. When limited funds are available, priority shall be given to programs that:

(1) Address designated health occupation shortage areas;

(2) Are unique;

(3) Address employment shortage areas determined by appropriate State

agencies; and

(4) Are designed to meet the requirements of new technology-oriented State or

regional industries.

D. The designation of a program as Statewide does not preclude a community college

from proposing the same program for its political subdivision. While the existence of the

Statewide program shall be taken into account, the proposed program shall be evaluated

on its merits, considering the number of job openings, student demand, and cost.

E. If the Secretary determines there is no longer a need for a program to be

designated as health occupation shortage or Statewide, the health occupation shortage or

Statewide program designation may be discontinued. In these cases, a community college

shall continue to receive reimbursement for the out-of-county differential for students

already enrolled in the program.

13B.02.03.27

.27 Steps in the Program Review Process.

A. Submission of a Program Proposal.

(1) If a proposed program can be implemented using existing resources, the

program proposal may be submitted simultaneously to the institution’s governing board

and the Secretary. Otherwise, the program proposal will be approved by the appropriate

governing board before submission to the Secretary.

(2) A program proposal from a public institution must provide documentation as

required by Education Article, §11.206.1(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.

(3) Within 10 days after receipt of a program proposal, the Commission:

(a) Shall notify an institution of the status of the institution’s proposal; and

(b) May request documentation deemed to be missing or insufficient in

response to the program review parameters.

(4) A program proposal is not considered to be complete until the applicant submits

supporting documentation requested by the Commission.

- 35 -

(5) The submission of substantial supplemental information beyond that requested

by the Commission may cause a program proposal to be changed significantly, and

thereby cause the proposal to be considered a new submission, triggering another 60-day

review.

B. Review of a Program Proposal.

(1) The Secretary shall review each program proposal according to the criteria for

program review in Regulation .06 of this chapter and the delegation of the Commission

authority in Regulation .04 of this chapter.

(2) Immediately after receipt of a completed program proposal, the Secretary shall:

(a) Inform all institutions and segments of the proposal; and

(b) Allow a 30-day period for comments and objections.

(3) The Secretary or an institution may file an objection to implementation of a

proposed program if the objection is based on:

(a) Inconsistency of the proposed program with the institution’s approved

mission;

(b) Not meeting a regional or Statewide need consistent with the State Plan;

to another institution; or

(d) Violation of the State’s equal educational opportunity obligations under

State and federal law.

(4) If an objection is filed under subsection (3) of this section, the Commission shall

immediately notify the proposing institution’s governing board and president.

(5) The Secretary shall determine that an institutional objection is justified if it is

based upon the criteria in subsection (3) of this section and is accompanied by detailed

data and information supporting the reasons for the objection.

(6) The Secretary may request additional information from the proposing or

objecting institutions.

(7) If the Secretary determines that an objection is justified under subsection (5) of

this section, the Secretary shall negotiate with the proposing institution’s governing board

and president, or designees, to modify the proposed program in order to resolve the

objection.

(8) The Secretary may invite representatives of the objecting institution to any

negotiations.

(9) If the objection cannot be resolved within 30 days of receipt of an objection, the

Secretary shall make a final determination on the proposed new program unless the

- 36 -

respective representatives of the proposing and objecting institutions agree to a longer

negotiation period.

(10) The review shall be completed within 60 days of the date the Secretary

determined that the program proposal was complete unless the deadline is extended with

the agreement of the proposing institution.

C. Final Action by the Secretary.

(1) Favorable action.

(a) Unless there is a request for a Commission review, favorable action by the

Secretary on a completed program proposal constitutes final program approval or

recommendation, and final degree authorization, if required.

(b) An institution shall implement an approved or recommended program in

accordance with the approved program proposal and the conditions set by the Secretary.

responding to the original proposal and any conditions that may be imposed.

(2) Unfavorable action.

(a) If the Secretary does not approve or recommend the program proposal, the

Secretary shall provide a written explanation of the reasons for the disapproval or non-

recommendation.

(b) Following the Secretary’s decision, an institution may elect to:

(i) Revise the proposal to address the Secretary’s reasons for disapproval

or non-recommendation and submit the revised proposal for reconsideration; or

(ii) Have the matter reviewed by the Commission in accordance with

Regulation .28 of this chapter.

purposes of the statutory 60-day time frame for Commission action.

13B.02.03.28

.28 Review by the Commission.

A. Request for Review.

(1) Subject to the requirements of § B of this regulation, the Commission shall

review a decision of the Secretary on a program proposal at the request of the president of

an institution as provided in this section.

(2) If the Secretary disapproves or does not recommend a program, the president

of the proposing institution may ask the Commission to review the Secretary’s decision.

- 37 -

(3) If the Secretary approves or recommends a program, the president of an

institution that objected during the Secretary’s review within the time frames established by

this chapter may ask the Commission to review the Secretary’s decision.

B. Prerequisites to Review.

(1) The Commission shall accept a request for review of a decision of the

Secretary on a program proposal, if the requirements of this section are met.

(2) Within 10 days of the issuance of the Secretary’s decision, a president seeking

the Commission’s review of that decision shall send a letter to the Secretary and the

Commission chairperson notifying the Commission of its request for a review.

(3) Within 30 days of the issuance of the Secretary’s decision, a president seeking

review shall submit to the Secretary and the Commission chairperson its full rationale in

support of its position, including any relevant supporting data.

(4) Unless the Commission finds that an exigent circumstance prevented a

president from meeting the requirements of this section, the Commission may not accept a

request for review of a decision of the Secretary on a program proposal if the requirements

of this section are not met.

C. Secretary and Staff Responsibility.

(1) Within 20 days of receipt of notice of the request for review, the Secretary or

Commission staff shall submit to the Commission chairperson its rationale in support of

the decision, including any relevant supporting data.

(2) A copy of the materials provided to the Commission shall be made available to

any president seeking review.

D. Scheduling of Review Meeting.

(1) The Commission chairperson shall schedule a meeting to review the decision of

the Secretary within 60 days of the issuance of the Secretary’s decision.

(2) If the Commission chairperson determines that there is sufficient time for the

Commission to review the materials submitted under §§ B and C of this regulation prior to

the next regularly scheduled meeting, the review shall occur at that meeting.

(3) If the next regularly scheduled Commission meeting is scheduled more than 60

days after the issuance of the Secretary’s decision or if the Commission chairperson

determines that there is insufficient time for the Commission to review the materials prior

to the next regularly scheduled Commission meeting, the Commission chairperson shall

convene a special meeting at an appropriate time within the 60-day time period.

(4) With the consent of the Secretary and the president seeking review, the

Commission chairperson may schedule the review meeting outside of the 60-day time

period.

E. Conduct of the Review Meeting.

- 38 -

(1) The Commission chairperson or the chairpersons’ designee shall preside over

the meeting.

(2) Not later than three working days before the Commission meeting, the

Secretary and any president who wishes to make a presentation in support of or in

opposition to the Secretary’s decision shall inform the Commission chairperson of the

name and title of each individual who will be speaking with or for them.

(3) The presentations shall include information, data, facts, and materials that

clarify material contained in the original proposal or objection, and relate to the basis on

which the program was approved or disapproved, or recommended or not recommended.

(4) The Secretary or president may provide the Commission with a written

summary of the presentation and relevant documents.

(5) Any Commission member may ask questions during the presentations.

(6) If the number or length of the questions unreasonably consumes the time

allotted in §§ F and G for any presentation, the Commission chairperson may grant a

request for additional time if the chairperson deems it appropriate or necessary.

F. Conduct of the Meeting When a Proposing Institution Has Sought Review.

(1) When a President of a proposing institution has requested the review of the

Secretary’s disapproval or non-recommendation of a program, the presentations shall

follow the order and the time limits set forth in this section.

(2) The Secretary shall make the first presentation and explain the Secretary’s

decision, including relevant supporting data. The Secretary may make the presentation

alone or in combination with one or more others as determined by the Secretary.

(3) The president of the proposing institution shall explain the institution’s

objections to the decision, including relevant supporting data. The president may make

the presentation alone or in combination with one or more others as determined by the

president.

(4) The Secretary and designees as determined by the Secretary may respond to

the institution’s presentation.

(5) The president and designees as determined by the president may respond to

the Secretary’s presentations.

(6) The Secretary shall have a total of 30 minutes for the Secretary’s presentation,

and may divide the time between the initial and responsive presentations as the Secretary

deems appropriate.

(7) The president shall have a total of 30 minutes for the proposing institution’s

presentation, and may divide the time between the initial and responsive presentations as

the president deems appropriate.

- 39 -

(8) The president of a proposing institution may select a chief executive officer of a

segment as one of the presenter’s during the president’s 30 minute presentation.

(9) Presentation by objecting institution.

(a) Subject to the requirements of § E(2) of this regulation, a president of an

institution that objected to the proposed program prior to the Secretary’s decision within

the time frames established by this chapter may make a presentation to the Commission.

(b) The presentation shall be limited to 10 minutes, and shall be made after the

proposing institution’s second presentation.

the president, and may include the president and a chief executive officer of a segment.

(d) If more than one objecting institution is eligible to make a presentation, the

Commission chairperson shall determine the order of the presentations and whether it

would be helpful to the Commission to allow more than 10 minutes for all of the

presentations.

G. Conduct of Meeting When an Objecting Institution Has Sought Review.

(1) When a president of an objecting institution has requested the review of the

Secretary’s approval or recommendation of a program, the presentations shall follow the

order and the time limits set forth in this section.

(2) The Secretary shall make the first presentation and explain the Secretary’s

decision, including relevant supporting data. The Secretary may make the presentation

alone or in combination with one or more others as determined by the Secretary.

(3) The president of the objecting institution shall explain the institution’s objections

to the decision, including relevant supporting data. The president may make the

presentation alone or in combination with one or more others as determined by the

president.

(4) The Secretary and designees as determined by the Secretary may respond to

the institution’s presentation.

(5) The president and designees as determined by the president may respond to

the Secretary’s presentations.

(6) The Secretary shall have a total of 30 minutes for the Secretary’s presentation,

and may divide the time between the initial and responsive presentations as the Secretary

deems appropriate.

(7) The president shall have a total of 30 minutes for the presentation, and may

divide the time between the initial and responsive presentations as the president deems

appropriate.

(8) The president of an objecting institution may select a chief executive officer of

a segment as one of the presenters during the president’s 30 minute presentation.

- 40 -

(9) When there is more than one objecting institution, the Commission chairperson

shall decide the order of the presentations and whether it would be helpful to the

Commission to allow more than 30 minutes for all of the presentations.

(10) Presentation by Proposing Institution

(a) Subject to the requirements of § E(2) of this regulation, the president of the

proposing institution may make a presentation to the Commission.

(b) The presentation shall be limited to 10 minutes, and shall be made after

each objecting institution’s second presentation.

the president, and may include the president and a chief executive officer of a segment.

H. Conduct of Meeting When Both the Proposing and an Objecting Institution Have

Sought Review.

(1) If the Secretary disapproves or does not recommend a program and both the

proposing and an objecting institution seek review, and objecting institution that has

complied with the provisions of §§ B and E(2)of this regulation may follow the procedures

for the proposing institution set forth in § F of this regulation.

(2) The objecting institution’s presentations shall follow the proposing institution’s

first and second presentations as set forth in § F(3) and (5) of this regulation.

(3) If more than one objecting institution has sought review, the Commission

chairperson shall determine the order of the presentations.

I. Commission’s Decision.

(1) The Commission shall follow the procedures in this section in making its

decision.

(2) Upon completion of the presentations, the Commission may adjourn to

executive session as allowed by law to discuss the presentations and any relevant

documentation submitted by the presenters.

(3) The Commission shall render a decision that is consistent with the

requirements of this Chapter.

(4) After consideration, but not later than 10 working days after the review meeting,

the Commission shall send a final written decision to the president with a copy to all

presenting institutions, segments, and the Secretary.

(5) The decision of the Commission is final, and is not subject to reconsideration by

the Commission or review by any administrative or judicial body.

(6) For purposes of the Administrative Procedure Act, the Commission’s review

under this chapter is not a contested case.