Undergraduate Studies and Policies (USP)
Committee Charge
Dean Sumichrast thanked all members for their service on the Pamplin Undergraduate Studies and Policies Committee (USP) and provided an overview of member responsibilities. Referring to the Pamplin Standing Committees Definitions and Procedures document, the Dean emphasized that in most cases, committee members will serve no longer than two consecutive two-year terms. This will ensure a degree of continuity, as well as allow for fresh perspectives. The committee will continue to serve in an advisory capacity to Dean Sumichrast. The Committee will make recommendations to the Dean via the meeting minutes concerning undergraduate programs (majors, minors, courses and certificates). Proposals should be vetted by the Office of Undergraduate Programs for completeness prior to submission to the governance system and review by UCC/CUSP.
Recommendations that may be considered by USP include: 1) The adoption of, elimination of, and changes to goals that should be achieved by all undergraduates prior to graduation in any degree program accredited by AACSB, 2) Standards or guidelines for when action should be considered to improve undergraduate learning outcomes, 3) Review course proposals and significant changes to courses primarily taught for undergraduate students. Inputs are likely to come from the departments or from the Dean’s office, 4) Review proposals to create, eliminate, or change undergraduate programs. Such proposals could originate from the departments or the Dean’s office, and 5) Review indications of the quality of teaching and courses and make recommendations when appropriate.
The Undergraduate Studies and Policies Committee helps assure that Pamplin meets the expectations for AACSB specified in its accreditation standards. The committee interfaces closely with Pamplin International Programs and the Pamplin Undergraduate Assurance of Learning Committee. The committee also interfaces closely with the academic departments and may recommend that changes be considered in courses that they offer.
