Periodic Subject Review

Periodic Subject Review (PSR) refers to the process by which programmes and modules within subject areas are strategically reviewed and re-approved on a six-yearly cycle. The process aims to ensure that the programmes and modules under review continue to be current and valid so meeting the needs of:

• Students
• Employers
• Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies (PSRBs)
• Collaborative partners
• Academic staff members of the Subject Team

The PSR process also ensures that all programmes and modules are aligned with the University’s current Strategic Plan and that all external requirements are met particularly in relation to Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) Subject Benchmark Statements and the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ).

All PSR processes are underpinned by the principles of externality, peer review and the student voice being central to all considerations. PSRs are normally held online.

The PSR process is maintained by the Quality Unit which ensures that it is proportionate to the scope of the provision being considered. The Quality Unit can provide guidance in relation to whether a PSR needs to be aligned with forthcoming PSRB re-accreditations and/or how any collaborative partners may be involved.

The key document for the PSR is the Self-Evaluation Document (SED) which needs to be critically evaluative, strategic in nature and explicitly highlight examples of innovation, enhancement, and good practice.

It is not permissible to process Changes of Approval in conjunction with PSR and these must be processed separately. Please see the Change of Approval Handbook for more details.

Subject Teams wishing to defer or bring forward their PSR (due to exceptional circumstances) must submit a request initially to the relevant Faculty Academic Committee (FAC) and then to the Academic Quality and Standards Committee (AQSC) for final approval.

For more detailed information please see the Periodic Subject Review Handbook. The 2024-25 version will be available shortly.

General queries in relation to PSR processes can initially be sent to validations@northampton.ac.uk.