Educational institutions need to be aware of emerging employment opportunities in new and expanding fields if they are going to continue to attract students. Most licensing and accrediting agencies ask an institution for some form of feasibility study when submitting new program-add applications. The research involved in this step often requires proof of need for the program, number of anticipated job openings, and input from employers. This course outlines ways to collect data to make an effective decision and show regulatory agencies proof of employment opportunities. Step-by-step directions are included to assist institution staff in conducting effective research and preparation of curriculum to meet employer specifications.

Module 1: Start the Process

• Understand the need for research when determining new programs to offer and changes to be made.
• Use tools to create an effective Program Committee or Advisory Board.
• Prepare a list of resources in your community including employers and professional organizations.
• Explain your community demographics.

Module 2: Learn About Your Community

• Describe the makeup of your community.
• Gather data from your constituency and community needed for program research.
• List your competition.
• Use survey, interview, and other techniques to gather information.
• Assess relevant data already collected by your institution.

Module 3: Learn from the Data

• Define program add questions in order to analyze data.
• Create and use surveys and interview questions and other tools to gather data.
• Analyze data to determine possible new programs to add or changes to be made.
• Use data to determine possible continuing education courses to add.
• Analyze data to understand your competition.

Module 4: Implementing Program Changes

• List requirements of regulatory agencies with institutional oversight.
• Determine new programs or program changes to be made.
• Draft information for regulatory applications.
• Create an implementation plan to launch new programs or make changes.