Degree Authorization

B.C. Public Institutions - Before you Apply

Please ensure you have reviewed all of the information relevant to applications for the following:

New Degree Programs

The following criteria and guidelines are in effect as of Dec. 11, 2006.

Degree Program Review Criteria and Guidelines (2006) - The Degree Program Review Criteria and Guidelines outline the requirements for submitting a proposal for a new degree program and the assessment criteria used by the Degree Quality Assessment Board. All new degree proposals must be submitted through the post-secondary institution proposal system.

New Mandate Applied Degrees Ministry Review - Public university colleges and provincial institutes submitting proposals for applied master’s degrees, and colleges submitting proposals for applied bachelor degrees, must submit an applied degree ministry review template to the ministry.

Exempt Status

The following criteria and guidelines are in effect as of Dec. 11, 2006.

Exempt Status Criteria and Guidelines (2006) - Institutions may apply to the Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development for exempt status to a particular degree level (e.g. baccalaureate, master’s or doctoral level).


Once an institution has exempt status to a particular degree level, that institution is eligible to submit new degree proposals directly to the minister for approval. All new degree proposals must be submitted through the post-secondary institution proposal system.

Other documents

• Fees and Costs Associated with External Assessment
• Use of External Experts
• Conflict of Interest Guidelines – Board Members and External Experts
• Participation of Institutions in Board Meetings
• Policy and Legislation on Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy