Office of Graduate Studies
Strategic Plan 2010-15
1
Writing Group:
Jeffrey A. Potteiger, Dean of Graduate Studies
John R. Stevenson, Associate Dean of Graduate Studies
David Cannon, Seidman College of Business
Mark Staves, College of Liberal Arts and Science
Special thanks to the following groups for reviewing this document:
Graduate Council
Graduate Program Directors
Academic Deans
Center for Scholarly and Creative Excellence
Faculty Teaching and Learning Center
Office of Graduate Studies
Graduate and Professional Student Association Officers
Provost’s Office (University Assessment Officer)
2
Mission
To define and support excellence in graduate education and the scholarly and research activities associated with it. To articulate a vision of
excellence in our actions and policies that affect students, faculty, and curriculum. To advocate for graduate education and graduate
students within the university in terms of resources, services, and other activities that support graduate student endeavors and goals.
Vision
The Office of Graduate Studies will provide exemplary leadership and continuous support for the development and provision of distinctive
and exemplary graduate education programs that prepare GVSU graduates to be effective leaders in their field, to be engaged lifelong
learners, to succeed in attaining desired employment or admission to further graduate or professional study, and to excel in a global
environment. By focusing on the promotion of distinctive and exemplary graduate education programs GVSU will become the university of
choice for graduate students seeking a strong education in a Carnegie classification “Master’s Large” institution of higher education that is
grounded in a liberal arts tradition.
Value Statements
As the primary advocate for distinctive and exemplary graduate education - for graduate students, faculty, and degree programs - our core
values include:
1. Effective Teaching – Graduate faculty are excellent teachers and mentors at the graduate level, active in scholarly, research, or
creative activity appropriate for the discipline, and active in service to graduate education.
2. Liberal Education – Graduate programs build on the liberal ideals of critical thinking, lifelong learning, academic inquiry and reflection,
growth in self-knowledge, professionalism, and ethical decision-making in both a local and global context.
3. Scholarship – Active scholarship by faculty members and graduate students informs effective teaching, contributes to new knowledge,
advances discipline-specific practices, and is an essential component of quality graduate education.
4. Service – Graduate education provides expertise, collaboration, and resources to professional organizations, lifelong learning and
opportunity for partnerships with communities, and service learning and volunteer opportunities both local and global.
5. Inclusiveness – Graduate education emphasizes exposure to diversity of opinion and voices to further develop critical, reflective
thinking. Engagement with a wider variety of backgrounds and experiences broadens graduate student and faculty perspectives in
their discipline and world at large.
3
6. Community – Graduate education builds academic, professional, and social communities which value competence, integrity, and
diversity.
7. Sustainability – Graduate education creates a sustainable future for the local community, state, and region by providing competent
graduates who contribute to the efficient and effective use of resources for education, health care, business, government, the
environment, and communities.
4
Strategic Positioning 2010-2015
Grand Valley State University (GVSU) Goals and the Office of Graduate Studies (OGS) Aligned Goals
GVSU Goal 1. Grand Valley is a comprehensive university grounded in the tradition of liberal education with well-integrated
undergraduate and graduate programs appropriate to its Carnegie Classification as a “Master’s Large” institution through which
students earn accredited degrees.
Aligned OGS goal: To enhance GVSU’s capacity to provide excellent graduate education experiences, by raising the voice, visibility, status,
and quality of graduate education within the university and community.
GVSU Goal 2. Grand Valley provides a rich, inclusive learning and working environment that attracts, retains, and supports a
diverse community.
Aligned OGS goal: The OGS will promote inclusiveness and diversity among our students, staff, faculty, and programs.
GVSU Goal 3. Grand Valley provides a student-centered liberal education experience that fosters academic success and prepares
students for careers through degree programs at the graduate and undergraduate level that have clearly defined learning
outcomes and a rigorous level of academic challenge.
Aligned OGS goal: To ensure that GVSU graduate programs build on a liberal education and provide opportunities for professional success.
GVSU Goal 4. Regular and rigorous assessment results inform decision-making at Grand Valley.
Aligned OGS goal: The OGS conducts regular, reflective and rigorous assessment of its activities and uses the results to guide decisionmaking.
GVSU Goal 5. Grand Valley has the human resources and the physical and pedagogical infrastructures it needs to promote
effective learning and teaching in all disciplines at all levels.
5
Aligned OGS goal: The OGS supports the development of human resources, and physical and pedagogical support to promote effective
learning and teaching at the graduate level in strategic disciplines.
GVSU Goal 6. Grand Valley educates well-prepared and well-rounded graduates who positively contribute to West Michigan, the
state, the nation, and the world.
Aligned OGS goal: Graduate Programs educate well-prepared and well-rounded graduates of GVSU who positively contribute to West
Michigan, the state, the nation, and the world.
GVSU Goal 7. Grand Valley’s stakeholders are aware of and supportive of the university’s financial decisions.
Aligned OGS goal: The OGS contributes to the awareness of and support for the university’s financial decisions by GS stakeholders; and
GS makes its financial decisions with transparency on grounds aligned with strategic goals.
GVSU Goal 8. Grand Valley has extensive relationships with current and new constituencies that lead to these constituencies’
involvement with, participation in, support of, and contribution of resources to the university community.
Aligned OGS goal: The OGS supports the development and maintainance of relationships with current and new constituencies which are
involved with, participate in, supportive of, and contributing resources to the university graduate community.
6
Goal 1. Grand Valley is a comprehensive university grounded in the tradition of liberal education with well-integrated
undergraduate and graduate programs appropriate to its Carnegie Classification as a “Master’s Large” institution through which
students earn accredited degrees.
Aligned OGS goal: To enhance GVSU’s capacity to provide excellent graduate education experiences, by raising the voice, visibility, status,
and quality of graduate education within the university and community.
University University Objective(s)
Goal(s)
1
1.1. By the end of
September 2010, all
colleges and divisions
have current strategic
plans aligned with and
supportive of the
university’s strategic
plan.
1.2 By the end of
September 2010, all
academic and nonacademic colleges and
divisions will begin
implementation of their
inclusion plans.
1.2.1: By 2012, all
academic and nonacademic units have
fully integrated
their college’s and
division’s inclusion
implementation and
strategic plans and
processes.
1.3 By 2012, the
faculty, administration,
and Board of Trustees
will refine and reaffirm
principles of
shared governance.
GS objective(s)
Metric
Strategy(ies)
Action(s)
1.1 Align OGS
Checklist – Yes or Update and revise OGS
strategic plan with No
strategic plan and set
University
goals/objectives as
strategic plan.
appropriate.
Responsible Timeline
Resources
Person/Group
Dean,
September to
Associate
December, 2010
Dean, OGS
Staff
Status as of
12/20/10
Complete
1.2
Checklist – Yes or Support faculty and staff
Implementation of No
participation in inclusion
the OGS Inclusion
program.
plan.
Dean
Ongoing
OGS inclusion
plan complete
July 2010;
Updated
December 2010
1.2.1
Metrics contained
Implementation of in OGS inclusion
the OGS Inclusion plan
plan.
Continue to encourage and Dean
support faculty and staff
participation in inclusion
program.
Ongoing
In progress
1.3 OGS will refine Checklist – Yes or
and reaffirm
No
principles of
shared
governance
through support of
Graduate Council,
Graduate Program
Directors (GPD),
Improve communication,
Dean,
Ongoing to 2015
transparency, and decision Associate Dean
making between OGS,
University Academic Senate
(UAS), Graduate Council,
Graduate Program Directors
(GPD), Graduate Faculty,
Deans Council, and
Graduate and Professional
7
In progress with
continued
posting of OGS
governance
information on
OGS web page.
Graduate Faculty,
Deans Council,
and the Graduate
and Professional
Student
Association
(GAPSA)
1.4 By 2012, policies 1.4 Coordinate the Checklist – Yes or
governing all graduate alignment of all
No when polices
and undergraduate
policies governing are compared
degrees, programs,
graduate courses, across academic
and courses are
programs, and
units
aligned and integrated degrees across all
institution-wide.
academic units.
1.4.1: By 2012,
1.4.1 Provide
Checklist – Yes or
appropriate oversight leadership to the No
and infrastructure
university and
support for graduate
academic units in
programs and graduate developing
students are well
oversight and
established.
infrastructure for
graduate
programs and
graduate students.
1.4.2: By 2012, policies 1.4.2 Provide
Checklist – Yes or
for hiring and
leadership to the No
determining workload academic units for
for graduate and
developing a
undergraduate faculty differentiated
are differentiated.
workload for
graduate
education
Student Association
(GAPSA).
Posting of OGS governance
information on website.
Assemble and post on the Dean,
Ongoing-2012
website a compendium of
Associate Dean
policies and procedures for
graduate education.
In progress
Review and align relevant
Dean,
Ongoing-2012
OGS policies and
Associate Dean
procedures with university
and individual academic unit
policies.
In progress
Work with Graduate Council, Dean,
Ongoing-2012
GPD, Graduate Faculty, and Associate Dean
Deans Council to identify
and adopt best practices
from peer-matched and
aspirant institutions in
developing policy,
procedures, and program
review that are appropriate
for GVSU.
1.4.3: By 2012, policies 1.4.3 Provide
Checklist – Yes or Work with Graduate Council, Dean,
Ongoing-2012
for hiring,
guidance and
No
GPD, Graduate Faculty, and Associate Dean
compensating,
support to
Deans Council to identify
promoting, and earning academic units for
and adopt best practices
tenure for graduate and developing best
from peer-matched
undergraduate faculty practices for
institutions in developing a
are based on best
hiring,
differentiated workload for
practices and
compensating,
graduate education.
monitored.
promoting, and
In progress
8
In progress
1.4.4: By 2011, an
institution-wide system
for calculating and
balancing the
workloads of graduate
and undergraduate
faculty at all ranks is in
place.
1.5 By 2015, secure
re-accreditation for 12
currently accredited
discipline-specific
graduate and 23
discipline-specific
undergraduate degree
programs.
1.6 Through 2015, as
a result of thoughtful,
comprehensive
analysis of both the
benefits and costs to
the unit and university
community, seek
accreditation for all
current unaccredited
graduate and
undergraduate
programs as
determined
appropriate.
1.7 By 2010,
determine the
university’s strategic
intent with respect to
online education.
earning
tenure for
graduate faculty.
1.4.4 Assist and Checklist – Yes or
support the efforts No
of academic units
in developing an
institution-wide
system for
calculating and
balancing the
workloads of
graduate faculty
1.5 Assist GPDs Checklist – Yes or
and academic unit No
heads in securing
re-accreditation for
any currently
accredited
discipline-specific
graduate degree
programs.
1.6 Assist GDPs, Checklist – Yes or
unit heads, and
No
program faculty in
securing
accreditation for all
currently
unaccredited
graduate
programs, as
appropriate.
1.7 Support
Checklist – Yes or
university efforts to No
determine
strategic intent
with respect to
online education.
Work with Graduate Council, Dean,
Ongoing-2012
GPD, Graduate Faculty, and Associate Dean
Deans Council to identify
and adopt best practices
from peer-matched
institutions in developing a
hiring, compensating,
promoting, and earning
tenure for graduate faculty.
In progress
Meet with GPD to identify
key issues by which the
OGS can support
reaccreditation efforts of
programs.
Dean,
Associate
Dean, GPD,
academic unit
heads
2015
In progress
Inquire of units if additional
accreditation options exist.
Dean,
academic unit
heads
2015
In progress
Meet with GPD to identify
key issues by which the
OGS can support
accreditation efforts of
programs.
Participate in university
Dean,
2012
discussions related to online Associate Dean
education.
Assist Graduate Council in
review of online graduate
courses with respect to
9
In progress
1.8 By 2011, the
university develops a
health strategy and
plans for necessary
infrastructure to
engage internal and
external constituents to
promote interprofessional health
education, scholarship,
and
service programs for
the 21st century.
1.9 By 2012, develop
a strategy which
integrates the Office of
Charter School’s
activities within the
broader university.
1.10 By fall 2010, all
community
engagement efforts on
campus are well
documented and
coordinated.
1.8 Support
Checklist – Yes or
university efforts to No
promote
interprofessional
health education,
scholarship, and
service in
graduate
education
programs as
appropriate.
1.9 Support
Checklist – Yes or
university efforts to No
integrate Office of
Charter School's
activities within the
broader university.
1.10 All
Checklist – Yes or
community
No
engagement
efforts on campus
involving graduate
education are well
documented and
coordinated.
1.12 By 2011, faculty 1.12 Support
Checklist – Yes or
service to the unit,
university efforts to No
college, university, and ensure that faculty
professional
service is
communities will be
recognized
recognized through
through systematic
systematic processes processes based
based on best practice on best practice.
standards.
1.13 By 2011, staff
1.13 Assist the
ePDP
performance review
supervisors of staff
criteria are examined to involved in
include best practice graduate
standards.
education to
include best
online degree programs.
Engage internal and external
constituents in discussions
of ways to deliver high
quality inter-professional
health education,
scholarship, and service
programs for the 21st
century.
Assist graduate faculty in
COE in preparing teachers
and administrators for
improvement of Charter
Schools.
2011
Implement in
parallel with
university
efforts
Dean,
2012
Associate Dean
Implement in
parallel with
university
efforts
Document and coordinate
community engagement
through strategic planning.
In progress
Highlight community service
activities in OGS Newsletter.
Assist academic unit heads Dean,
2011
and deans by providing data Associate Dean
regarding faculty recipients
of graduate education
honors.
Utilize the new online ePDP
process.
10
2011
ePDP
In progress
practice
standards.
1.14 By 2015, the
1.14 OGS to
Checklist – Yes or
university has a well- model sustainable No
established reputation practices and
as a leader in
support university
sustainability efforts
efforts to promote
and
sustainable
model for best
practices.
practices by
establishing a process
to evaluate campus
sustainability efforts
and
establishing aggressive
goals to promote social
responsibility,
encourage
environmental
stewardship,
and create efficiencies
and value for the work
we perform. [Baseline
will be established in
2010.]
Lower paper use.
Make documents available
on the web site.
Recycle.
OGS to continue to print,
on FSC and Green Seal
Certified paper.
Promote sustainable
practices and green
research in PR activities.
Promote links between
faculty researching and
teaching in fields relevant
to sustainability.
Showcase sustainability
activities that units have
been engaged in terms of
graduate teaching, service,
and scholarship.
11
Dean,
Ongoing
Associate Dean
In progress
Goal 2. Grand Valley provides a rich, inclusive learning and working environment that attracts, retains, and supports a diverse
community.
Aligned GS goal: The OGS will promote inclusiveness and diversity among our students, staff, faculty, and programs.
University University Objective(s) GS objective(s)
Goal(s)
2
2.1. By 2012,
undergraduate
students will have the
opportunity for
achieving intercultural
competence
training that is officially
certified.
2.2 By 2015, 100% of 2.2. 100% of OGS
faculty and staff will
staff will have had
have had the
the opportunity to
opportunity to
participate in
participate in
graduated levels of
graduated levels of
intercultural
intercultural
competence
competence training. training.
2.3 By 2015, expand 2.3. Expand the
the diversity of faculty diversity of OGS
and staff as
staff, whenever
demonstrated by the possible, with new
workforce utilization
hires
analysis. [Baseline as
indicated by the
annual Workforce
Utilization Analysis;
Affirmative
Action Plan.]
2.4 By January 2010, 2.4. Assist EDPAC
the Enrollment
in meeting its’
Development Planning goals.
Assessment
Committee (EDPAC
2008-2015) Plan will
be fully implemented
Metric
Strategy(ies)
Action(s)
Responsible Timeline
Person/Group
100% Participation Encourage and support staff Dean
participation in intercultural
competence training.
2010-2015
Resources
Status as of
10/30/10
Inclusion
training
workshops
In progress
PACES
program
Expand diversity
of staff from
current levels.
Promote best hiring
practices for staff positions.
Dean
2015
GS Inclusion
Plan
In progress
PACES
Program
Exceed by 3%
each year the
application,
admission, and
graduation rates
for graduate
degree programs.
OGS will advise and counsel Dean,
2010
the Graduate Enrollment
Associate Dean
Management (GEM)
Committee and the GPDs to
achieve the enrollment and
retention goals for graduate
education.
12
Office of
In progress
Admissions,
Registrar,
Institutional
Analysis, GPD
and monitored on an
annual basis.
To support efforts of GDP in
the recruitment of degree
seeking students.
Coordinate efforts of
Admissions Office, GPD,
and support staff for advising
entering students.
Promote smooth and timely
progression from admission
to graduation.
2.5 Annually, the
2.5. OGS will
Expand the
Implement GS Inclusion
Dean,
ongoing
university will increase increase its
diversity of the of Plan.
Associate Dean
its outreach efforts in outreach efforts, as graduate student
order to enhance the well as support
body compared to Assist the Padnos
diversity of its
those of degree
2010 levels.
International Center and
student body.
programs, in order
Office of Admission in
to enhance the
identifying and recruiting a
diversity of its
diverse graduate student
student body.
body.
OGS Inclusion In progress
Plan
PACES
GEM
Committee
Pursue international
exchange opportunities.
Promote faculty-led
programs abroad,
internationalization of
courses, and study abroad
opportunities.
2.6 By 2015, the sixyear graduation rate
for undergraduates will
be 65%. [Baseline
2008, 52% six-year
graduate rate as
computed for IPEDS.]
2.7 By 2012,
2.7. OGS will
Checklist – Yes or
increase services
increase services No
designed to support
designed to
non-traditional
support nonstudents, including
traditional students,
New Graduate Student
Orientation.
Dean,
2010-2015
Associate Dean
PACES
GradClub
Offer more opportunities for
students to participate in
13
GAPSA
In progress
veterans, students
older than average,
and other adults in
transition. [Baseline
will be established in
2010.]
including veterans,
students older than
average, and other
adults in transition.
Grad Club.
Student Affairs
Enhance PACES program
offerings to support diversity
initiatives.
Promote GAPSA to the
graduate student population.
Provide online resources for
graduate students.
2.8 By December
2.8. OGS will
2010, the Office of
support Office of
Inclusion and Equity Inclusion and
will conduct a rigorous Equity climate
climate study
study.
of faculty, staff, and
student experiences to
identify a current
baseline of
perceptions in areas of
inclusion and equity.
Support the veterans’
initiative whenever possible.
Checklist – Yes or Promote and participate in Dean
No.
GVSU climate study.
14
December 2010
In progress
Goal 3. Grand Valley provides a student-centered liberal education experience that fosters academic success and prepares
students for careers through degree programs at the graduate and undergraduate level that have clearly defined learning
outcomes and a rigorous level of academic challenge.
Aligned GS goal: To ensure that GVSU graduate programs build on a liberal education and provide opportunities for professional success.
University University Objective(s) GS objective(s)
Goal(s)
3
3.1 By 2012, at least 3.1 To create a bi45% of former
annual survey for
students completing assessing degree
the university’s biprogram quality for
annual Survey of
graduate students.
Graduates rate
the quality of
instruction as
excellent. [Baseline
from 2008 Grand
Valley Survey of
Graduates, 41% rate
quality of instruction
as excellent.]
3.2 By 2013, at least
53% of freshmen and
58% of seniors
completing the biannual National
Survey of
Student Engagement
(NSSE) rate the
university’s level of
academic challenge
as “high.” [Baseline: In
the 2007 NSSE,
50.8% of freshmen at
Grand Valley and
55.9% of seniors rated
the university’s level
of academic challenge
as “high.” At Grand
Valley’s peer
Metric
Results from the
survey will meet
university
expectations
Strategy(ies)
Action(s)
Collaborate with institutional
analysis on the
development, administration
and implementation of the
survey.
15
Responsible Timeline
Person/Group
Dean,
2011-2012
Associate
Dean, Phillip
Batty
Resources
Status as of
10/30/10
Not yet started
universities, 50.8% of
freshmen and 54.5%
of
seniors’ rate those
institutions’ level of
academic challenge
as “high.”]
3.3 By 2012, at least 3.3 At least 60% of % reported by
50% of the university’s graduate students Michigan Postundergraduate and
earning a degree Higher Education
graduate students
report they
Survey.
who have earned a
are “very well
degree
prepared” for
and complete the
further graduate
Michigan Post-Higher school or current
Education Survey
employment.
report they are “very
well prepared” for
entry
into their current
position. [Baseline
from 2008 Michigan
Post-Higher Ed
Survey: Currently
employed
Grand Valley
bachelor’s degree
graduates reporting
they are “very well
prepared” for position
= 44%;
currently employed
Grand Valley master’s
degree graduates
reporting they are
“very well prepared”
for position = 49%.]
Use existing resources such Dean,
as PACES, GAPSA, and
Associate
Grad Club to facilitate the
Dean, GPDs
professionalization of
graduate students.
Assist graduate program
directors with the
development of High Impact
Practices (HIP).
16
2012
Support for
surveys
In progress
3.4. By 2015, service 3.4. To assist GPD Checklist – Yes
learning, co-curricular in developing HIP or No
activities, and other
for specific
experiential learning programs.
opportunities are fully
developed and
supported by
administrators, faculty,
and students at Grand
Valley as a pedagogy
that
links community
service to academic
coursework [Baseline
from HLC’s 2008
Assurance Section:
Report of
a Comprehensive
Evaluation Visit, p.6:
“...it is unfortunate that
service learning as a
pedagogy which links
community service to
academic coursework
does not appear to be
as fully developed and
supported in
comparison to other
universities that share
a commitment to
community
engagement.”]
3.5 By 2012, the
3.5 To assist GPD Checklist – Yes or
institution will
in developing an
No
inventory opportunities inventory for HIP
for students to
for specific
participate in high
programs
impact
experiences
(internships, co-ops,
domestic and global
service learning, study
Encourage HIP in graduate Dean,
2010-2015
curricula through the
Associate Dean
curricular review process of
Graduate Council.
Graduate
Council
Curriculum subcommittee
Assist GPDs in creating a
repository of HIP.
17
Dean,
2011-2012
Associate Dean
GS Staff
In progress
Graduate
council
In progress
abroad, scholarship
with faculty, learning
communities, etc.)
across the university
and implement
programs that
provide students with
the opportunity for at
least two such
experiences in general
education or in
majors and minors.
3.6 By 2015,
3.6. Promote
students will have the graduate student
opportunity to take
participation in
course work or
internships and
participate in
domestic and
internships and
global service
domestic and global learning
service learning
experiences that
experiences that focus focus on best
on best practices in
practices in
sustainability.
sustainability
Inventory of
opportunities for
graduate student
participation in
internships and
domestic and
global service
learning
experiences that
focus on best
practices in
sustainability.
Support current
sustainability learning
experiences.
Dean,
2010-2015
Associate Dean
Padnos
Encourage incorporation of International
Center
sustainibility into existing
courses as appropriate.
18
On going
Goal 4. Regular and rigorous assessment results inform decision-making at Grand Valley.
Aligned GS goal: OGS conducts regular, reflective, and rigorous assessment of its activities and uses the results to guide decision-making.
University University Objective(s) GS objective(s)
Goal(s)
4
4.1. By 2015, 90% of 4.1. By 2015, 90%
administrators, faculty, of OGS
staff, and students
administrators,
engage in rigorous
faculty, staff, and
assessment of all
graduate students
institutional processes engage in rigorous
and outcomes.
assessment of all
[Baseline will be
OGS processes
established in 2010.] and outcomes.
4.2. By 2012, all
4.2. By 2012, all
courses identify
graduate course
student learning
syllabi will include
outcomes linked to
student learning
appropriate
outcomes linked to
pedagogies.
appropriate
pedagogies.
4.3. By 2012, the
university has
completed an
evaluation of the
outcomes and
students' satisfaction
with the university's
new student advising
approach and
structures.
Metric
Assessment
reports based on
UAC cycle.
Assessment
reports based on
UAC cycle.
4.3 Provide support University
to the university
evaluation of
evaluation of the
outcomes and
outcomes and
students'
students'
satisfaction with
satisfaction with the the university's
university's new
new student
student advising
advising approach
approach and
and stuctures.
structures.
Strategy(ies)
Action(s)
UAC self-assessment
processes.
Responsible Timeline
Person/Group
Dean
2015
Support training for all
Dean, Associate 2012
faculty on syllabi
Dean
preparation and creation of
appropriate student learning GPD
outcomes.
FTLC
Promote syllabi of record
being made available to all
faculty members within the
university.
Where appropriate, support
academic unit review of all
syllabi and report
compliance with objective.
Assist GDP with alignment
of graduate advising
approaches and structures
with university's new
student advising approach
and structures.
19
2012
Resources
FTLC
FTLC
workshops
Status as of
10/30/10
In progress
Ongoing
In progress
4.4. By 2015, all units
under the direction of
the provost have
completed one selfstudy and at least two
full cycles of student
learning outcome
assessment critiques
by the University
Assessment
Committee.
4.5. By 2012, the
General Education
Program has fully
implemented its 2006
Assessment Plan and
made the assessment
results available to the
university community.
4.6. Through 2015,
maintain or expand all
current assessment
data management
systems of the
university.
4.7. Through 2015, 4.7. Monitor and
continue to monitor
assess the state
and assess the state and regional needs
and regional needs for for new or revised
new or revised
graduate programs
undergraduate and/or and degrees.
graduate programs
and degrees.
4.7.1. Through 2015, 4.7.1 Through
as the need for new or 2015, OGS works
revised undergraduate with appropriate
and/or graduate
academic units to
programs and
initiate the
degrees is
processes required
established, initate the to add new
processes required to curricular offerings
add these curricular based on identified
offerings to the
needs.
University and
Provide representation to
OGS assessment university monitoring and
reports.
assessment activities.
Review university
assessment reports for
impact on graduate
programs and degress.
Number of degree Provide leadership and
and certificate
assist academic units to
programs,
develop new or revised
successfully
graduate programs and
implemented.
certificates.
20
Dean, Associate Ongoing
Dean
In progress
Dean,Unit
heads, GPDs
In progress
Ongoing
university and secure
accreditation for
these, as appropriate.
4.7.2. Through 2015,
as the need for
discontinuance of
undergraduate and/or
graduate programs
and degrees is
determined, initiate
the processes
required to
discontinue these
curricular offerings.
4.8. Through 2015,
provide an annual
Grand Valley State
University
Accountability Report
to university
constituent groups.
4.9. Through 2015,
provide an annual
Dashboard Report to
internal university
consituent groups.
4.7.2 Through
Number of
2015, OGS works identified
with academic units programs
to initiate the
successfully
processes required discontinued.
to discontinue
curricular offerings
based on identified
needs.
Provide leadership among
academic units to identify
graduate programs that
should be discontinued.
4.8. Provide OGS Checklist – Yes or
support as required No
for annual GVSU
Accountability
Report.
Provide OGS representation Dean
to annual GVSU
Accountability Report
process.
4.9. Provide OGS Checklist – Yes or Provide representation to
support as required No
annual Dashboard report
for annual
process.
Dashboard
report.
21
Dean,Unit
heads, GPD
Dean
Ongoing
Enrollment
management
information
In progress
Ongoing
GVSU
Accountability
Report
Beginning Fall
2010
Ongoing
Dashboard
Report
In progress
Goal 5. Grand Valley has the human resources and the physical and pedagogical infrastructures it needs to promote effective
learning and teaching in all disciplines at all levels.
Aligned GS goal: OGS supports the development of human resources, and physical and pedagogical support to promote effective learning
and teaching at the graduate level in all disciplines.
University University Objective(s) GS objective(s)
Metric
Strategy(ies)
Goal(s)
Action(s)
5
5.1, The university will 5.1 Fully support Checklist – Yes or Seek representation from
fully implement the
academic units and No
the OGS on appropriate
2009 Human resource the university in the
committees.
planning and 2010
implement the
planning task force
2009 Human
report.
resource planning
and 2010 planning
task force report.
5.1.1. Increase the
5.1.1 Support
% of student credit Survey the GPD and unit
number of student
academic units in hours taught by
heads regarding the # of
credit hours taught by increasing the
full TT, associate graduate SCH taught by TT
TT faculty to 65% by number of
TT, and adjunct
faculty.
means of additional
graduate student faculty and the
faculty positions and credit hours taught number of TT
curriculum delivery
by TT faculty to at faculty teaching
Participation in tenure track
efficiencies [Baseline: least 10% higher graduate
searches
Fall 2008, 54%].
than the value
education SCH.
received in the
OGS strategy
identified in 5.1.1.
Participation in
Assist the
tenure track
academic deans
searches
with search
strategies for
tenure track faculty
positions.
5.1.2 Increase number
of staff by enrollment
growth of 6%
[Baseline:
approximately 1% per
22
Responsible Timeline
Person/Group
Dean, Associate 2010
Dean
Dean, Associate 2011
Dean, OGS
Resources
Status as of
10/30/10
In progress
In progress
year enrollment
growth].
5.2 Construct an
5.2 Assist
% increase of
Cooperate in development of Dean, Associate Ongoing
additional 500,000 to university in
academic space the Master Plan.
Dean
750,000 square feet of seeking additional
academic space based academic space in
on master plan
order to support
priorities
and enhance
graduate education
programs
5.3 By 2013, training is 5.3 Graduate
List of student
Assist graduate programs in Dean, Associate Ongoing
provided to faculty to faculty are trained learning outcomes identifying student learning Dean, GPD,
use new and current and equipped to
that are aligned
outcomes.
FTLC, CSCE,
pedagogical best
use new and
with identified
graduate faculty
practices and
current
pedagogical best Assist graduate programs in
technologies to
pedagogical best practices and
identifying pedagogical best
achieve student
practices and
technologies and practices and technologies
learning outcomes in technologies in
with corresponding suitable for achieving
all academic
support of student training programs. identifying student learning
programs.
learning outcomes
outcomes
5.3.1 By 2015, 50%
teaching and learning
spaces are enhanced
to support new
pedagogies
5.3.1 OGS
10% increase in
participates in the enhanced
development of
teaching and
enhanced teaching learning spaces
and learning
spaces to support
new pedagogies.
5.4 The university has 5.4 Graduate
3% per year
established and
faculty, staff, and increase in rates
maintained programs students are
of applications for
to incentivize faculty equipped and
and allocations of
members’, staff
encouraged to
both internal and
members’ and student make contributions external grants,
contributions to the
to the knowledge professional
knowledge base,
base and are
development
including the
recognized and
funds, and other
development of new rewarded for
support for
means to recognize
outstanding
scholarship and
and reward
intellectual and
creative practice
outstanding intellectual creative products. by graduate
and creative products.
faculty and
students.
Participate in the
development of enhanced
teaching and learning
spaces that support
pedagogical best practices
and technologies.
Dean, Associate Ongoing
Dean, GPD,
FTLC, CSCE,
graduate faculty
Assist university groups (e.g. Dean, Associate 2011
CSCE, FTLC, GPDs) to
Dean, GPD ,
survey and identify existing Unit heads
disincentives and barriers to
seeking internal and external
support, recognition, and
rewards for contributions to
the knowledge base.
Within PACES and GPSA
increase discussion of
importance of scholarly and
23
In progress
PD funds for
pedagogy
enhancement
In progress
Physical space, In progress
computer
resources and
other teaching
equipment (e.g.
laboratory
equipment)
Increase
In progress
Presidential
research grants,
travel funds,
graduate
assistant
positions
5.4.1. By 2011, the
university has
developed a
comprehensive
support structure for
faculty, staff, and
student scholarship
and creative products.
5.4.1. To assist
CSCE in
developing a
comprehensive
support structure
for faculty, staff,
and student
scholarship and
creative products.
5.4.2 By 2012, the
university has
established specific
incentives to improve
intellectual
productivity, including
grants; enhanced
professional
development funds,
increased financial
compensation, and
support for
scholarshop and
creative practice.
5.4.2. To partner
with the CSCE to
increase the
number of
graduate
assistantships
supported through
external funding.
creative activity.
3% per year
increase in
numbers of
scholarly and
creative outcomes
by graduate
faculty and
students.
3% per year
Develop a close relationship Dean and
2011
increase in
with the CSCE to promote Associate Dean
numbers of
research, scholarship, and
research, scholarly creative activities among
and creative
graduate faculty and
outcomes by
students.
graduate faculty
and students.
An increase to 30
total graduate
assistantships
supported through
external funding
To work with the CSCE to
Dean, Associate 2011
enhance the number of
Dean, Director of
graduate assistantship
CSCE
positions available in support
of external funding
opportunities.
1 Award
Add an Outstanding
Dissertation Award to the list Dean and
of Graduate Dean Citations Associate Dean
for outstanding scholarship
and creative activity.
Increase the
Submit a budget request to Dean and
allocation of
increase the total amount of Associate Dean
support to $30,000 support for the Presidential
Research Grants to $30,000.
24
In progress
Increased tuition In progress
waivers
Increased
research funds
In progress
Goal 6. Grand Valley educates well-prepared and well-rounded graduates who positively contribute to West Michigan, the state, the
nation, and the world.
Aligned GS goal: Graduate Programs educate well-prepared and well-rounded graduates of GVSU who positively contribute to West
Michigan, the state, the nation, and the world.
University
University
GS objective(s)
Metric
Strategy(ies)
Responsible Timeline
Goal(s)
Objective(s)
Action(s)
Person/Group
6
6.1 The proportion of 6.1 Graduate
Percentage of
Assist graduate programs in Dean and
2010-15
graduates who pass students and
students who pass identifying existing curricular Associate Dean
state or federal
programs are
state or federal
and extracurricular
examinations required provided the
examinations
resources that prepare
for practicing in their resources to
required for
students for the exams and
professions will
prepare students to practicing in their fill gaps in available
exceed the national pass state or
professions.
resources.
standard.
federal
examinations
required for
practicing in their
professions.
6.2 The proportion of 6.2 Graduate
Accountability
Use PACES Program to
Dean and
2015
graduates who secure students and
report;
assist graduate students
Associate Dean
employment
programs are
Alumni surveys; and programs with
OGS, Career
appropriate to their
provided the
Career Services development of essential
Services, Alumni
discipline or
resources to
surveys
skills for success in
Relations
profession or enter
prepare students to
employment or further
graduate school
enter further
graduate study.
exceeds 85%.
graduate study or
secure employment
that benefits from
the skills and values
of liberal education.
6.3 The proportion of 6.3 Graduate
Accountability
Use PACES Program to
Dean and
2015
graduates who secure students and
report; alumni
assist graduate students
Associate Dean
employment in any
programs are
surveys; Career and programs with
OGS, Career
discipline or
provided the
Services surveys development of essential
Services, Alumni
profession or enter
resources to
skills for success in
Relations
graduate school
prepare students to
employment or further
exceeds 95%
secure employment
graduate study.
in any discipline or
25
Resources
PACES
Status as of
10/30/10
In progress
Survey
In progress
development and
data collection
Survey
In progress
development and
data
gathering/assimila
tion
profession or enter
graduate school.
6.4 Graduates
6.4 Graduate
continue to seek and students and
hold positions of
programs are
business, nonprofit, provided the
political, and civic
resources to
leadership and
prepare students to
rsponsibility in West obtain leadership
Michigan, Michigan, positions regionally,
nation and world
nationally, and
globally.
Accountability
report; alumni
surveys; Career
Services surveys
Support efforts of Office of Dean, Associate 2015
Fellowships to prepare
Dean, and OGS
students to be competitive
for national and international
scholarship and fellowship
opportunities.
Support efforts of academic
units, Career Services, GV
in DC, Hauenstein Center,
Peter Cook Leadership
Academy, and PIC in
providing students with
internship, leadership, study
abroad, training, and
interviewing opportunities.
26
Survey
In progress
development and
data
gathering/assimila
tion
Goal 7. Grand Valley’s stakeholders are aware of and supportive of the university’s financial decisions.
Aligned GS goal: OGS contributes to the awareness of and support for the university’s financial decisions by GS stakeholders; and GS
makes its financial decisions with transparency on grounds aligned with strategic goals.
University
University
GS objective(s)
Metric
Goal(s)
Objective(s)
7
7.1 Annually, the
university maintains
and monitors its
practices to reduce its
overall exposure to
business and
catastrophic risks at
acceptable levels
7.2 The university
7.2 OGS
Dean's Budget
regularly and
communicates
effectively
regularly with GPD Reports to faculty,
communicates its
and unit
staff and students
strategic budgeting
heads about
priorities to student, budgeting priorities.
faculty, staff and other
stakeholders
7.3 By 2010, at least 7.3 Support
Checklist – Yes or
75% of faculty are
university efforts to No
familiar with the
inform at least 75%
university's’s strategic of faculty with
budgeting priorities
budgeting priorities.
and the financial
consequences of
institution’s decisions
such as change in the
general fund budget,
pay equity, salary
compression, and
tuition ADD INFO
7.6 Rate of increase 7.6 Increase
Report from
in financial aid
funding of
Financial Aid,
awarded to students scholarships by GS broken down by
meets or exceeds
alumni and
academic college.
Strategy(ies)
Action(s)
Resources
Status as of
10/30/10
Annual
Budget reports
In progress
Articulate and
Dean’s Office
disseminate GS budgeting
priorities and financial
consequences of decisions
to Graduate Faculty, GPD,
and unit heads via electronic
communication and posting
of information on the OGS
website.
Annual
Annual reports
costs
In progress
Distribute Financial Aid
Units and
information for graduate
Dean’s Office
students through the
graduate student guidebook Office of
Annually
Disseminate OGS Annual
Report.
Responsible Timeline
Person/Group
Dean
Provide GPD and unit
heads, and GAPSA with
strategic budgeting priorities.
27
Infrastructure
In progress
university’s costs
applications for
scholarships by
graduate students.
7.7 Through 2015,
7.7 Increase
Total financial
graduate financial
internal
support in
support, including but and external
stipends, tuition
not limited to,
financial support of waivers, and
stipends, tuition
graduate students support for
waivers, and support within GVSU
scholarship and
for scholarship and
graduate programs. creative practice.
creative practice
remains equal to or
greater than the
financial support
provided to graduate
students by other
Michigan institutions
with identical or
similar graduate
degree programs.
[Baseline: HLC’s 2008
Assurance Section:
Report of a
Comprehensive
Evaluation Visit, p.16:
“Graduate stipends,
tuition, waivers, and
research support will
need to stay
and the GS website.
Fellowships
Leverage the support of the
Office of Development,
GVSU alumni and along with
graduate programs to
expand scholarships for
graduate students within the
university.
Encourage GPD and
graduate faculty to promote
scholarship applications
among their majors by
working with Office of
Fellowships and linking to
that website.
Work with academic
administration to increase
internal support for graduate
students.
Dean, Associate Annually
Dean, OGS,
units with
graduate
programs
Work with CSCE to increase
external funding
CSCE
submissions that contain
graduate student support.
Office of
Development
Work with Office of
Development to increase
funding for graduate student
support.
Periodically monitor other
Michigan Universities for
Graduate stipends, tuition,
waivers, and research
support offered by other
graduate programs in the
state, particularly for those
areas not unique to GVSU.
28
Graduate
Deans at
Michigan
Colleges and
Universities
Internal stipends In progress
and tuition
waivers
competitive with those
offered by other
graduate programs in
the state, particularly
for those areas not
unique to GVSU.”]
7.8 By 2012, at least 7.8 Support efforts Survey results of Support university wide and Dean and
2012
35% of faculty report of GVSU to ensure full, associate, and academic unit efforts in
Associate Dean
that the university
that at least 35% of adjunct graduate achieving this objective.
rewards them for
faculty report being faculty.
good teaching.
rewarded for good
Work with GAPSA to identify
[Baseline: 2004 HERI teaching.
outstanding faculty mentors
31.1% of Grand
in graduate education and
Valley faculty reported
have those faculty
they were rewarded
nominated for appropriate
for good
faculty awards
teaching; nationwide
at four-year public
institutions, 17.1% of
faculty report they are
rewarded for
good teaching.]
29
In progress
Goal 8. Grand Valley has extensive relationships with current and new constituencies that lead to these constituencies’
involvement with, participation in, support of, and contribution of resources to the university community.
Aligned GS goal: OGS supports the development and maintainance of relationships with current and new constituencies which are involved
with, participate in, supportive of, and contributing resources to the university graduate community.
University University Objective(s) GS objective(s)
Goal(s)
8
8.1 By 2015, GVSU 8.1. Graduate
has a state- and
faculty, staff, and
nation-wide reputation students will be a
for academic
visible presence at
excellence in graduate state, regional and
and undergraduate
national
programs.
professional
events.
8.1.1. By 2012, Grand 8.1.1. Graduate
Valley has improved faculty, staff, and
by .5 pts its overall
students will
reputation and
steadily increase
familiarity in West
presentations,
Michigan and metro participation in
Detroit among
conferences,
prospective students. performances, and
[Baseline: 2009
other activities at
Institutional Image
West Michigan and
Research Survey, 7 metro Detroit high
pts. ordinal scale;
schools.
Reputation W.MI 5.7
pts., Familiarity W.MI
5.4 pits.' Reputation
Metro Detroit 5.1 pts.,
Familiarity Metro
Detroit, 4.1 pts.]
8.1.2. By 2012, Grand 8.1.2. Graduate
Valley has improved faculty, staff, and
by .2 pts its overall
students will
reputation and
steadily increase
familiarity in West
public
Michigan and metro presentations in
Metric
Strategy(ies)
Responsible Timeline
Action(s)
Person/Group
Record and report Highlight available support Dean and
in the OGS
for faculty and staff to
Associate Dean,
Newsletter
present at national and state OGS
graduate faculty, professional events.
staff and student
activities.
Resources
Status as of
10/30/10
Professional In progress
development
funds,
Internal
funding for
presentations
Number of events Develop/support graduate Dean, Associate
in which graduate program outreach events in Dean, OGS, Unit
faculty, staff, and West Michigan.
Heads, Faculty
students present
or participate.
Record, report,
and track number
of events in which
graduate faculty,
staff, and students
present or
Highlight available support OGS, Unit
for faculty members to make Heads, Faculty
presentations at
public/professional meetings
and conferences.
30
In progress
Digital
Measures
In progress
Detroit among the
conferences,
participate.
general public.
performances, and
[Baseline: 2009
other activities in
Institutional Image
appropriate venues
Research Survey, 7 in West Michigan
pts. ordinal scale;
and the metro
Reputation W.MI 5.7 Detroit area.
pts., Familiarity W.MI
5.2 pts. Reputation
Metro Detroit 4.7 pts.,
Familiarity Metro
Detroit, 3.4 pts.]
8.1.3. By 2015, the 8.1.3 Graduate
Record and report
university increases its faculty, staff, and data on number of
name recognition and students are
applications.
public image among provided the
potential faculty, staff, resources to
and students
prepare and
nationally. [Baseline compete for
will be established in national
2010.]
scholarships,
fellowships, grants,
awards and honors.
8.2 The university has 8.2. OGS will
Record the
formal and informal
support academic number and type
partnerships that
unit efforts to
of community
contribute to meeting increase high
interactions.
community generated impact
goals
opportunities for
students in
research,
internships, and
other experiential
learning
opportunities.
8.2.1. West Michigan 8.2.1 OGS will
Checklist – Yes or
community
support academic No
partnership activities unit efforts to
will increase
increase
experiential learning experiential
opportunities for
learning
students.
opportunities for
students.
Develop outreach
opportunities in West
Michigan and metro Detroit.
Increase use of web-based
video of presentations and
performances.
Assist whenever possible
faculty, staff, and students
with preparation and
processing of application
materials for national
scholarships, fellowships,
grants, awards and honors.
OGS, Office of 2015
Fellowships,
Career Services,
CSCE
Funding for
software
tutorials
In progressenhanced efforts
to support
students have
begun in
collaboration
with Office of
Fellowships and
enhanced CAAC
pre-professional
programming
In progress
Establish and maintain
Dean, Associate 2015
connections with community Dean, OGS
organizations that provide
experiential learning
opportunities.
Unit self
reports
Collaborate with Career
OGS, academic 2015
Services and academic units units
to expand the existing
internship and fieldwork
opportunities for graduate
students in West Michigan.
Infrastructure In progress
to support
academic unit
efforts
31
8.4 By 2015,
increase the
ownership of Grand
Valley by alumni as
evidenced by a 15%
increase in
participation over
2009 levels and an
increase in donor
participation to 10%
8.5. By 2015, the
university will have
increased the active
donor base which
includes alumni,
faculty/staff., retirees,
students, partners,
friends, corporations,
and foundations who
contribute annually to
the institution by 20%
over fiscal year 08-09
number of 21, 086
(VSE Donor Count)
8.4. Collaborate
Track percentage
with university
of alumni
efforts to grow the population
alumni participation reached with
at a rate that
publications and
parallels the
electronic media.
university goal of
15% participation
and increased 10%
donor participation.
8.5. Increase
Report activities
visibility of
with GVSU
university
graduate students
development
to university
campaign to
development.
graduate alumni,
faculty, staff, and
students.
8.6. By 2015, the
university will increase
our VSE comparable
reported cash gifts to
$13,000,000 annually
in private gifts from
alumni, faculty/staff,
retirees, students,
parents, friends,
corporations,
foundation relations,
and major gifts.
8.7. By 2015, the
8.7 Support efforts
university will increase related to
the endowment gifts to endowment gifts to
the university,
the university,
including scholarships, including
Expand newsletter that
highlights faculty, student,
and alumni activity.
OGS, Academic 2015
units.
Alumni
survey’s
In progress
Increase prominence of
university development
campaign on OGS web
page.
Dean, Associate 2015
Dean
In progress
OGS
In progress
Highlight university
development campaign at
graduate faculty and staff
functions.
Increase prominence of
university development
campaign on GS brochures,
programs, and other printed
materials.
Record and report
the number of
contacts with
external
constituents that
Work with Office of
Development to identify
potential supporters of
graduate education and
graduate programs.
32
2015
from our current
scholarships and show interest in
average of $2 million assistantships for contributing to
to $5 million a year
graduate students. GVSU.
(including present
value).
8.8 By 2015, the
8.8. Increase
Record and report Highlight activities and
university will have
visibility of and
activities related to support in OGS publications
completed, stewarded, provide support for university
and website.
and received pledges university
development
and commitments of development
campaign.
over $50,000,000 on campaign to
the current
alumni, faculty,
comprehensive
staff, and students.
campaign (Shaping
our Future) and will be
prepared to launch the
next comprehensive
campaign in 2017.
8.9. Steadily increase 8.9. Support the
Reports from
Support efforts of academic
each fiscal year the
steadily increase CSCE.
units to obtain externally
number and total
each fiscal year the
sponsored agreements that
award amounts of
number and total
support scholarship and
externally sponsored award amounts of
creative practices.
agreements
externally
supporting scholarship sponsored
and creative practices agreements.
[Steadily = even
performance]
8.10. Steadily
8.10. Steadily
Reports from
Support efforts of academic
increase each fiscal increase each year CSCE.
units to obtain externally
year the number of
the number of
sponsored agreements that
faculty and staff
faculty and staff
support scholarship and
conducting internally conducting
creative practices.
and/or externally
externally
sponsored scholarship sponsored
and creative
scholarship and
practices. [Steadily = creative practices.
even performance]
33
OGS,
Development
Office
2015
Development In progress
Office
Dean and
Annual reports
Associate Dean
CSCE
In progress
Dean and
Annual reports
Associate Dean
CSCE
In progress