Propose a New Program
ACADEMIC PROGRAM PLANNING
All new baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs must be approved by the University of North Carolina Board of Governors in accordance with UNC Regulation 400.1.1[R]. Learn more about academic program planning policies.
Process Overview
Step 1:
Request for Planning Authorization
Submit initial concept and justification.
Step 2:
UNC System Office Review
Determination if a full proposal can be submitted for consideration.
Step 3:
Request to Establish
Submit full proposal, including curriculum, demand, and financials.
Step 4:
Review & Comment Period
All new program proposals undergo review by peer institutions.
Step 6:
Program Summary
Program summary is published in the Board of Governors’ meeting materials.
Program Planning Timeline
The Academic Program Approval Calendar helps institutions plan and manage the timeline for establishing academic programs. Aligned with the UNC Board of Governors’ annual approval schedule, the calendar provides predictable submission windows and review milestones to support timely, collaborative, and efficient program development.
Institutions should use the calendar early in the planning process to align campus timelines with Board approval cycles, allowing adequate time for proposal development, institutional review, and UNC System Office feedback. While the calendar serves as a general planning guide, actual timelines may vary based on proposal readiness, institutional review processes, and the Board of Governors meeting schedule.
After the Request for Planning Authorization has been approved, institutions can submit the Request to Establish (RTE) to UNC System Office. The RTE is a comprehensive academic and operational plan that focuses on curriculum, faculty, implementation, assessment, and sustainability.
Download and complete the Request to Establish form below. This document is submitted to the UNC System Office through the Program Establishment Portal (PREP) system.
- Request to Establish Tutorial: This interactive tutorial explains the requirements and steps for completing the Request to Establish template.
- Course Credit Exemption Request: Download and complete this form when requesting an exception to required course credits related to any other topic identified in UNC Regulation 300.8.5 VII. Attach the completed request form to the RTE and submit both items together.
If the RTE is approved by UNC System Office staff, the proposal will be submitted for review and approval by the UNC Board of Governors.
The Proposed Academic Program Summary is a concise overview of a proposed degree program that highlights key information from the Request for Planning Authorization and Request to Establish, including program purpose, student demand, workforce alignment, affordability, and institutional fit. It is included in Board meeting materials for public review. This document is submitted to the UNC System Office through the Program Establishment Portal (PREP) system.
Academic Program Planning Guide
The Academic Program Planning Guide provides UNC System institutions with a clear, practical framework for planning and securing approval for new academic programs, aligned with Policy 400.1 and Regulation 400.1.1[R]. It outlines expectations, required analyses, and step-by-step guidance for completing the RPA and RTE, using data and strategic alignment to support high-quality, workforce-relevant program proposals.
PREP/API User Manual
Insight Data Dashboard
Use the Insight Data Dashboard to access student demand, education premium, workforce alignment, peer comparisons, and earnings data to support program proposals. Access is managed by each institution. Contact your campus administrator to request access.