6.1. Intent to Plan: An institution must express to the chancellor by a statement of intent to plan a new Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree program at least 120 days prior to the date when the Council considers approval of the new program. Early consultation allows exploration of such fundamental concerns as needs analyses, consistency with institutional mission, resource requirements, and other issues prior to engaging in extensive and detailed planning. Since community and technical college occupational programs or certificates do not require external approvals, no intent to plan request should be filed for these occupational programs or certificates. The chancellor and staff will review the statement of intent to plan. Consultants may be used when deemed necessary. Approval of requests to plan shall be made by the chancellor.
Authorization to plan a new academic program does not, however, in any way constitute a commitment on the part of the Council to approve the program at such time as the planning is completed and the program approval request is submitted. The authorization indicates that the program is consistent with the mission of the institution. Planning authorization allows the institution to formulate a proposal for establishment of the new program.