Suspension and/or Discontinuance of Programs Policy

This policy establishes a comprehensive, respectful and timely process for program suspension and the possible discontinuance of program intakes at Vancouver Community College (VCC, the College) in accordance with the College's values, vision, and the Integrated College Plan.

This policy meets the legislated responsibility of the Board of Governors and the Education Council under the College and Institute Act; Section 19(1)(d), the Board may determine courses or programs to be offered or cancelled at the institution; and Section 23(1)(e) Education Council must advise the Board, and the Board must seek advice from the Education Council, on the development of educational policy for the cancellation of programs.

This policy applies to all College programs with the exception of non-credentialed programs in Continuing Studies. This policy does not apply to adjustments in the number or location of course offerings as part of the ongoing management of program delivery.

1. The Board of Governors will consider the suspension or discontinuation of a program upon the recommendation of the Senior Executive Team and after hearing the advice of Education Council.


2. The decision to suspend a program intake will be based primarily on program performance indicators including program quality, student demand, retention and graduation rates, financial viability, and program relevance.


3. The discontinuation of a program shall be considered only as the final means of managing a program.


4. The suspension and/or discontinuance of a program will be communicated to all affected relevant parties as soon as a decision is made. To minimize the impact on current students and prospective applicants, notification must be provided in writing to faculty, staff, students, prospective applicants, and government (if appropriate).


5. The College will provide all students the opportunity to complete the program in which they are enrolled. However, there may be special circumstances where it is not possible for the College to do so, or where the transfer of students to another college would be more practicable. Under such circumstances, the College will, whenever possible, assist affected students in enrolling in the same program offered by another institution located within a reasonable distance from the College.

Consultation

The notification to, and participation of, all interest groups or relevant parties in a two-way flow of information and opinion exchange before action is taken or decisions reached.

Program

A defined set of courses of instruction leading to a credential.

Program Suspension

Ceasing to admit students to a program for a defined period of time. Programs may not be in suspension longer than four years without a decision made to reinstate a program, or discontinue it.

Program Discontinuance

The permanent closure of a program which includes removal from the academic calendar and cessation of admission to the designated program.

Program Feasibility Working Group

A group of individuals appointed by the Program Review and Renewal Committee of Education Council to produce a Feasibility Report (the Report). Members are appointed from relevant areas of the College, ensuring that various perspectives are considered and represented in the final Report. The Working Group will conduct its review on the basis of equity and fairness.

• Education Services Renewal (405)
• Program Review and Renewal (403)

• College and Institute Act, RSBC 1996, c 52


• VCC and VCC Faculty Association Collective Agreement


• VCC and CUPE Local 4627 Collective Agreement