Program Research

What does it take to start a new program? How do you arrive at the decision to start a new program? It is all about the research. I will go over the process that I follow to decide if a new program is needed. There are many different reasons to create a new program/class. The purpose of the program and the type of program will define the research steps.

Is this for professional development? Do you have a catalog and like to keep it active? Are some classes in need of replacement because data shows they are not doing well? Are you looking to create a new certificate program to replace one, or to fit a need within the community? Is this part of a special project or a career ladder for your student body? Does the training time frame fits within your objectives? In workforce development, accelerated can be the difference between success of a program and possible funding sources, although this is not without exceptions.

Depending on the answers, you will move through different aspects of research. Looking at job postings, speaking to companies and workforce boards to see what the market needs are, looking at your state’s Labor Market Statistics (LMI) to research the programs with the largest growth, or the feasibility for one that you have in mind.

After you have decided on the program, look for other programs (similar, or where does your program fits within the career ladder). This will help you define program needs. Search for credentials and micro-credentials that the program can include. Is there an opportunity for noncredit to credit pathways. Are there third-party credentials (certifications) or micro-credentials available for this program? Third-party credentials provides the program with validation and give the student credible tools that will stand out in their resume.

Next, look at programs already being offered. What do they include? Are you missing any key elements for your program? What is the competition? Is this something that is too common within your area? Are there more people graduating than possible jobs available? If so, move on. The only way a program like this will work is in an Employer-Partner Initiative (I have written about these before) that takes the student directly from training to employment.

Next, inquire with businesses to see if there is interest in your program, or if they would be interested in being part of a Program Advisory Board. If the program seems feasible, what are the requirements (equipment, licenses, employee prerequisites)? Program research is a key part of program design and a step that cannot be taken lightly for successful implementation of a program.

Stay tuned for my tips on program design. We will go over the items I take into consideration when creating a new program.

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Workforce Warrior is an education blog, created by a workforce development professional with 20+ years in all areas of workforce development and college programming, including admissions, advising, career services and program development. The goal of Workforce Warrior is to pass on the knowledge collected over the years to fellow workforce and college professionals.

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