Chapter Four: Criteria for Graduate Program Approval
Chapter Four outlines the essential criteria that universities must meet for the approval of graduate programs, as specified in Article 5. This chapter serves as a guideline for maintaining high standards in graduate education within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, ensuring that programs are of sufficient quality to meet national and international benchmarks.
Article 5 stipulates that the University Council is responsible for establishing detailed criteria for approving graduate programs, which must align with the following foundational requirements:
Firstly, the university seeking approval for a graduate program must have obtained institutional accreditation from the Education and Training Evaluation Commission. This accreditation is a comprehensive evaluation of the university's overall performance, including its governance, academic standards, faculty qualifications, facilities, and commitment to continuous improvement. Institutional accreditation assures that the university as a whole meets the established standards of quality and is capable of providing a supportive environment for advanced studies and research.
Secondly, for the approval of a higher diploma or master's program, it is required that the bachelor's program in the same specialization has obtained program accreditation from the Education and Training Evaluation Commission or from an international accrediting agency approved by the Commission. Similarly, to approve a doctoral program, the master's program in the same specialization must have received such accreditation. This requirement ensures that the foundational programs leading up to the graduate level are of high quality, providing a solid academic base for advanced study. Program accreditation involves a thorough review of the curriculum, faculty, resources, student support services, and learning outcomes, ensuring that the program meets specific standards of excellence.
Thirdly, the department proposing the graduate program must have a sufficient number of professors and associate professors specialized in the relevant field to support the program. This criterion emphasizes the importance of having qualified and experienced faculty members who can deliver advanced coursework, supervise research, and contribute to the academic development of graduate students. Professors and associate professors bring a depth of knowledge and expertise that is crucial for maintaining the rigor and integrity of graduate education. Their involvement ensures that students receive mentorship and guidance necessary for producing high-quality research and achieving academic success.
By setting these criteria, the regulation aims to uphold the standards of graduate education and ensure that universities are fully equipped to offer programs that meet the educational needs of students and the strategic goals of the nation. The accreditation requirements serve as a quality assurance mechanism, promoting consistency and reliability across institutions. They also align the universities with international standards, facilitating global recognition of the qualifications awarded.
The emphasis on faculty qualifications ensures that there is adequate academic leadership and expertise within the department to support the proposed program. This not only enhances the learning experience for students but also contributes to the advancement of knowledge within the field through research and scholarly activities conducted by faculty members.
In essence, Chapter Four and Article 5 play a critical role in the process of graduate program development and approval. They provide a structured framework that universities must follow to ensure that their graduate offerings are of high quality, relevant, and capable of producing graduates who can contribute effectively to their fields and to the broader objectives of Saudi society. By adhering to these criteria, universities can enhance their reputations, attract high-caliber students and faculty, and strengthen their contributions to national development through education and research.
This chapter underscores the commitment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to fostering excellence in higher education, particularly at the graduate level. It recognizes the importance of advanced education in driving innovation, economic growth, and societal progress. By rigorously evaluating and approving graduate programs based on these criteria, the nation ensures that its higher education institutions remain competitive and continue to produce graduates who are well-equipped to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Article 5
The University Council shall establish detailed criteria for approving graduate programs in accordance with the following:
- The university must have obtained institutional accreditation from the Education and Training Evaluation Commission.
- To approve a higher diploma or master's program, the bachelor's program in the same specialization must have obtained program accreditation from the Education and Training Evaluation Commission or from an international accrediting agency approved by the Commission. For the approval of a doctoral program, the master's program in the same specialization must have obtained such accreditation.
- The department must have a sufficient number of professors and associate professors specialized in the relevant field to support the proposed graduate program.