Preliminary Curriculum Approval

The preliminary curriculum approval process assures that curriculum development is aligned with the Ferris State University Strategic Plan. The PCAF requires a brief description that provides a rationale for the initiative demonstrating market demand while also detailing a 3-year budget and enrollment plan.  The PCAF is reviewed by department administrators, deans, the Provost or their designee and the President’s Council. Approval of the PCAF does not guarantee funding support from Academic Affairs.

Approval of the PCAF does not guarantee final approval of the full proposal. Approved PCAFs are posted on the Academic Affairs website to inform the entire University community about programs under development.

 A PCAF is required for the following curriculum initiatives:

• New degree, program/major
• New minor, concentration, or certificate
• Existing program redirection or shift of emphasis requiring three or more new courses and/or new resources
• Curricular customization of existing program for delivery to an off-campus cohort group

You can download a copy of the PCAF here. (current on 2/24/2021)

PCAF Budget Detail Form

Reviewed Preliminary Curriculum Approval Forms (PCAFs)

• Advanced Studies in Environmental Toxicology (October 2023)
• Advanced Studies in Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs (October 2023)
• Advanced Vehicle Technologies Certificate (April 2021)
• Automotive Service Certificate (October 2021)
• Broadcast Engineering Minor (December 2022)
• BSRN Substantial Revision (November 2024)
• Computer Science, BS (September 2023)
• Data Science and Analytics, BS (July 2024)
• Dental Therapy, MS (July 2022)
• Digital Instruction & Design, MS and Grad Certificate (Nov 2020)
• Electronic/Electrical Engineering Technology New Degree Programs (September 2023)
• Exercise Science, BS (July 2024)
• Forensic Accounting, Minor (September 2023)
• Health Care Certificate (July 2022)
• HVACR Engineering Technology and Energy Management (HVEM) Certificate (December 2022)
• Industrial Technology & Management Program Redirection (September 2023)
• Leadership Minor and Certificate Programs; Major Program Revision (October 2023)
• Master of Engineering Degree (November 2020)
• Master in Business Administration Program Revision (7 New Concentrations) (October 2024)
• MISI Advanced Studies Information Systems Assurance, Strategy, and Governance Certificate (December 2022)
• Operations and Supply Chain Management Program, Major Program Revision (October 2023)
• Pharmaceutical Sciences, BS (October 2023)
• Professional Sales, BS - Program Creation (November 2024)
• Special Education Experimental Educator Preparation Concentration (June 2024)
• Sustainable Transportation Service, AAS (June 2024)

Board of Trustee Approval

Ferris State University’s Board of Trustees will review and approve new academic programs at their regular board meetings throughout the year.