Policy overview
1 Purpose
To provide a transparent framework for Coursework curriculum design.
2 Scope
This policy applies to all programs, Courses, and Study Components offered by the University, excluding Higher Degrees by Research.
3 Policy Statement
The University is committed to providing a high quality and well-designed curriculum that meets the needs of its Students and the community.
This Policy aligns with the:
- Higher Education Standards Framework (Threshold Standards) 2021: Standard 3.1 Program (Course) Design
4 Principles
The University's curriculum must comply with the Higher Education Standards Framework and the Australian Qualification Framework, and meet the University's requirements for accreditation or approval as identified in the Program Accreditation Procedure.
4.1 Curriculum design
Curriculum design:
- is informed by the University's strategic goals and values;
- may be influenced by specific priority areas and initiatives within the University;
- engages with learners' needs, current knowledge and scholarship in relevant academic disciplines and, where applicable, advances in practice;
- articulates a clear set of Learning Outcomes and describes how the planned learning activities support the Student to achieve those Learning Outcomes;
- intentionally transitions Students in and out of the curriculum, particularly at the program level; and
- establishes a “point of difference” at the program level which differentiates graduates from the University's programs from graduates from other educational institutions.
4.2 Learning Outcomes
Program Learning Outcomes are informed by:
- the University's Graduate Attributes (refer to the Graduate Attributes Policy);
- the Higher Education Standards Framework which includes Australian Qualification Framework requirements;
- Threshold Learning Outcomes determined by Australian Learning and Teaching Council (ALTC) discipline groups (when applicable); and
- professional accreditation requirements (where applicable).
Program Learning Outcomes in turn inform the development of Study Component and Course Learning Outcomes.
Programs of study are designed to enable achievement of expected Learning Outcomes regardless of a Student's place of study or mode of delivery.
4.3 Constructive alignment of Learning Outcomes
Program level Learning Outcomes are identified firstly in the design process. Assessment, learning and teaching activities, and learning resources are then systematically aligned with the Learning Outcomes for the curriculum at all levels. Program or Study Component curriculum focuses on developing desired Student knowledge, skills and application across Courses by increasing the level of challenge, complexity and independence over time.
5 References
Nil.
6 Schedules
This policy must be read in conjunction with its subordinate schedules as provided in the table below.
7 Policy Information
| Accountable Officer | Provost |
| Responsible Officer | Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs) |
| Policy Type | Academic Quality Policy |
| Policy Suite | |
| Subordinate Schedules | |
| Approved Date | 31/1/2022 |
| Effective Date | 31/1/2022 |
| Review Date | 27/7/2026 |
| Relevant Legislation | Australian Qualifications Framework Higher Education Standards Framework (Threshold Standards) 2021 |
| Policy Exceptions | |
| Related Policies | |
| Related Procedures | |
| Related forms, publications and websites | |
| Definitions | Terms defined in the Definitions Dictionary |
| Course Learning Outcomes are the expression of the set of knowledge, skills and the application of the knowledge and skills a person has acquired and is able to demonstrate as a result of completing a Course....moreCourse Learning Outcomes are the expression of the set of knowledge, skills and the application of the knowledge and skills a person has acquired and is able to demonstrate as a result of completing a Course. A discrete element of a program, normally undertaken over a single Study Period, in which the Student enrols, and on completion of which the Student is awarded a grade....moreA discrete element of a program, normally undertaken over a single Study Period, in which the Student enrols, and on completion of which the Student is awarded a grade. A method of teaching and learning that leads to the acquisition of skills and knowledge and does not include a major research component....moreA method of teaching and learning that leads to the acquisition of skills and knowledge and does not include a major research component. Higher Degree by Research (HDR) A Research Doctorate or Research Masters program for which at least two-thirds of the Student load for the program is required as research work....moreA Research Doctorate or Research Masters program for which at least two-thirds of the Student load for the program is required as research work. The expression of the set of knowledge, skills and the application of the knowledge and skills a person has acquired and is able to demonstrate as a result of learning....moreThe expression of the set of knowledge, skills and the application of the knowledge and skills a person has acquired and is able to demonstrate as a result of learning. Program Learning Outcomes are the expression of the set of knowledge, skills and the application of the knowledge and skills a person has acquired and is able to demonstrate as a result of completing a Program....moreProgram Learning Outcomes are the expression of the set of knowledge, skills and the application of the knowledge and skills a person has acquired and is able to demonstrate as a result of completing a Program. A person who is enrolled in a UniSQ Upskill Course or who is admitted to an Award Program or Non-Award Program offered by the University and is: currently enrolled in one or more Courses or study units; or not currently enrolled but is on an approved Leave of Absence or whose admission has not been cancelled....moreA person who is enrolled in a UniSQ Upskill Course or who is admitted to an Award Program or Non-Award Program offered by the University and is: currently enrolled in one or more Courses or study units; or not currently enrolled but is on an approved Leave of Absence or whose admission has not been cancelled. Study Component Learning Outcomes Learning Outcomes are the expression of the set of knowledge, skills and the application of the knowledge and skills a person has acquired and is able to demonstrate as a result of completing a Study Component (only at the Major and Extended Major levels)....moreLearning Outcomes are the expression of the set of knowledge, skills and the application of the knowledge and skills a person has acquired and is able to demonstrate as a result of completing a Study Component (only at the Major and Extended Major levels). A coherent set of Courses that develop a particular academic theme. This includes Majors, Extended Majors, Minors and Specialisations....moreA coherent set of Courses that develop a particular academic theme. This includes Majors, Extended Majors, Minors and Specialisations. The term 'University' or 'UniSQ' means the University of Southern Queensland....moreThe term 'University' or 'UniSQ' means the University of Southern Queensland. | |
| Definitions that relate to this policy only | |
| Keywords | Curriculum design, program accreditation, learning and teaching, Study Components, Learning Outcomes |
| Record No | 21/130PL |