First, it must be determined whether the change constitutes a “substantial change.” The “Change to a Degree Program” checklist is intended for this purpose; it is recommended to consult with K33 for guidance on classification. A significant change occurs when the master data (e.g., degree program name, standard duration of study, etc.) or the fundamental content (e.g., curriculum, learning outcomes, etc.) of a degree program is changed. Unless the change is the result of a QES measure, the program’s accreditation may be subject to a re-evaluation (see Chapter 5 of the Process Manual).
Does the change—either on its own or in conjunction with all other changes—represent a typical further development of the program’s content (e.g., modernization, expansion)? Will the identity relevant to accreditation and the key framework conditions of the degree program remain unchanged as a result of the modification? Will the overall framework remain intact, and will the program’s qualification objectives, profile, resources, and essential characteristics as a whole therefore remain unchanged?
If the change is not substantial, or if the substantial change results from the QES tools, the program documents will be revised after consultation with K33. The faculty drafts the program documents and submits them to the Legal Department and K33 (please refer to the guidelines, templates, and sample program documents). There, they are reviewed for legal and accreditation-related aspects (compliance with the Higher Education Act and quality criteria). The documents reviewed in this manner are submitted by the KSL faculty, which recommends further action to the Senate. The Senate reviews the documents; if the vote is in favor, the rector then approves and signs them. The academic documents and information are subsequently published in the university’s official announcements.
Please note that for changes effective in the winter semester, the application and accompanying documents must be submitted by March. The reviews by K-R, K33, and URZ-V begin in December of the previous year. For changes effective in the summer semester, the documents must be submitted by the previous October; the reviews by K-R, K33, and URZ-V begin in June of the previous year. The review processes conducted by K-R, K33, and URZ-V take place simultaneously. The timeframes provided for reviewing program documents are estimates. Processing time may be extended, for example, due to an increased workload. The Senate typically decides on any re-accreditation—which, depending on the scope, may involve only a modification or, if necessary, the entire program—at its next meeting (in April or November). However, the follow-up steps can already be initiated.
When following up on any changes to the degree program, the following steps must be taken: Check that the module handbook is up to date; notify the student marketing department of the change; inform the general academic advising office of the change via the degree program information sheet; notify the URZ-V of the change; and review the Diploma Supplement and make adjustments to it if relevant changes have been made.
Once all steps have been completed, the process is considered complete. The degree program has then been successfully changed.
