Academic program review can feel like one more thing on an already full plate. But when approached thoughtfully, it becomes a tool for your program—helping you gather evidence, identify patterns, and build the documentation needed to advocate for resources and demonstrate impact. At Northeastern, we use a two-part cycle designed to make program reflection both manageable and meaningful.
The Annual Program Quality Report (APQR) provides a yearly check-in each spring to track progress and spot emerging opportunities or challenges early. The APQR launched the last week of February, and all programs are asked to respond. Using data already collected by the university, the APQR focuses on guided reflection rather than extensive reporting. You’ll reflect on prior action items and set new ones, creating a foundation that builds year-over-year. This regular rhythm means that when your comprehensive review arrives, much of the evidence already exists—reducing the retrospective burden significantly. Note: This year’s APQR includes a new section on Discipline Specific Accreditors and Licensure Passage. Northeastern is required by regional accreditors and the federal government to report this data for compliance. Survey responses are due by May 31, 2026 and the APQR survey at can be accessed at:
Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral:
- APQR Survey Preview
(While validation can be disabled in preview, selection of a program will still be required. Please select any program for the purposes of preview) - APQR Survey link
PhD Programs:
- APQR Survey Preview
(While validation can be disabled in preview, selection of a program will still be required. Please select any program for the purposes of preview) - APQR Survey link
Every five years, programs complete a Cumulative Program Quality Review (CPQR) that brings together multiple years of evidence to assess overall quality and plan strategically for the future. The CPQR incorporates external perspectives and produces actionable recommendations that serve both accreditation requirements and your own strategic goals. Your review year is determined through consultation between your college and the Office of the Provost, accounting for accreditation cycles and college planning timelines. Together, these processes create continuous attention to program quality while providing the evidence you need for decision-making, resource advocacy, and accreditation readiness. Questions? Contact the Office of Institutional Assessment and Effectiveness at [email protected].