Academic program prioritization results categorized 41 programs as candidates for review, 73 percent of which were minor or certificate programs.

Program prioritization, which began in 2014, uses task forces to create reports that review 223 academic programs and 236 administrative programs to influence the allocation of existing university funds. The reports were based on narratives and datum that were submitted by program leaders, such as deans and department chairs, in November.

Programs were placed in one of five categories: enhanced resources, no change in resources, reduced resources, transformation and subject to additional review. These categorizations are suggestions, and do not make any definite influence on the assessed programs.

The programs that were deemed subject to additional review were stated to be “lower performing and of lower priority to the NIU mission,” according to the report. Therefore, it is suggested that the programs are further reviewed by university officials and program leaders. They may eventually face elimination from the university.

Nine of the 30 minor/certificate programs that were placed in the review category requested elimination from the academic catalogue.

The report offers explanations for the program categorizations. For instance, it reads that the certificate for managerial leadership “is not a stand-alone program,” meaning that the ideas being taught are already imbedded in the MBA program.

The report also states incompetency in the narratives submitted during the fall and low enrollment justifies programs as subject to additional review. Anybody can submit feedback about the reports to program leaders or online until May 23. Program leaders will then create action plans that incorporate report commentary and efficiently allocate university resources.

To view the full academic report, go to bit.ly/1rrHOl3.