As defined by N.J.S.A. 18A:3B-8 et seq., the New Jersey Presidents’ Council (NJPC) has the responsibility to review and make recommendations concerning proposals for new academic degree programs, institutional licensure, and university status. To effectuate this responsibility, the NJPC created the Academic Issues Committee (AIC). The AIC has created several processes to assist in carrying out these responsibilities, and follows specific regulations determined by New Jersey statutes.
New Degree Programs
The AIC makes recommendations to the NJPC which in turn makes recommendations or comments to the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education on specific matters as it relates to new academic degree program development Additional details and information related to new academic degree program development can be found by downloading AIC Manual and is available on the Initiating New Degree Programs webpage.
Exceeding Programmatic Mission
For licensed New Jersey institutions interested in exceeding or changing their programmatic mission, the AIC reviews such requests in accordance with the licensure regulations outlined in New Jersey Administrative Code (N.J.A.C) Title 9A:1-2.9. Additional details and information related to exceeding or changing programmatic mission can be found below.
3+1 Processes
Pursuant to N.J.S.A 18A:3B-78, four-year institutions of higher education and a county college may partner to establish a three-plus-one degree program for a baccalaureate degree. As a result, the AIC has established processes to adhere to this statute. Additional details and information related to 3+1 programs can be found below.
Notification Items
Licensed New Jersey institutions are required to notify the AIC of changes to academic degree and certificate offerings as well as changes to academic degree offering locations and institutional partners. Additional details and information related to what constitutes notifications to the AIC can be found by downloading the AIC Manual and is available on the Required Notifications webpage.
Changing Degree Designation
An institution seeking a change in degree designation (e.g., B.A. to B.S.) must submit the Changing a Degree Designation form, provided below, to the AIC containing specific information and materials. The AIC will then evaluate the materials provided and assess whether certain conditions apply. Additional details and information related to changing a degree designation can be found below.
