Alberta Regulation 56/2024, known as the Programs of Study Amendment Regulation, was filed on March 27, 2024. This regulation amends the existing Programs of Study Regulation (AR 91/2009) under the Post-secondary Learning Act. The amendments introduced by this regulation have implications for the governance of post-secondary education programs in Alberta.

One notable change is found in section 2, where the term “form” is replaced with “form and manner.” This adjustment emphasizes the need for both a specific format and method for submissions to the Council, indicating a more structured approach to presenting information. Additionally, section 4 has been modified to clarify that matters are not merely under review; rather, they are for the Council to make determinations and recommendations. This highlights a more active role for the Council in decision-making regarding proposed programs of study.

Section 5, which outlines the Council’s responsibilities in reviewing proposed degree programs, has undergone substantial revisions. The amendment specifies that the Council must now base its reviews on standards established under section 7, moving away from the previously vague phrase “minimum standards and conditions” to a clearer framework. Furthermore, the introduction of new subsection (1.1) provides a more streamlined review process, allowing the Council to determine compliance based on an attestation from the applicant institution, provided two conditions are met: first, the institution must have a satisfactory record of proposing degree programs that comply with the established standards; second, it must have quality assurance policies that are acceptable to the Council. This shift is expected to expedite the approval process for institutions with a proven track record.

The regulation also clarifies standards and conditions in subsections (2) and (3) of section 5. References to “conditions and standards referred to in subsection (1)” have been replaced with “standards and conditions established under section 7,” reinforcing the exclusive reliance on these standards and ensuring consistency and clarity in the evaluation process. In section 7, the phrase “the minimum” has been streamlined to simply “minimum,” removing redundancy, and the reference to standards “referred to in section 5(1)” has been struck out, simplifying the interrelation of the sections and focusing directly on the established standards.

Moreover, section 8 has had its language adjusted from “on the referral to it of a matter by the Minister relating” to “in relation.” This change simplifies the phrasing and improves the clarity of the Council’s function in relation to ministerial matters.

By allowing institutions with a good track record to potentially bypass more rigorous review processes through attestations, the regulation seeks to promote institutional autonomy and incentivize quality assurance practices. The regulation aims to maintain and elevate the quality of post-secondary education in the province.

Alberta (56/2024) April 15, 2024