The authors provide a rationale for academic program reviews (APRs), highlighting their role in improving teaching, learning, and program quality in psychology departments. Following a brief history of accreditation in higher education, they introduce the purpose and scope of quality benchmarking in psychology program. Specific guidelines for organizing an APR for a psychology department include writing and organizing a self-study document, selecting an external reviewer(s) to lead the program evaluation, and planning for and scheduling activities for a reviewer’s visit. The essay concludes by considering the future of the APR in psychology education, especially at the undergraduate level.
Maureen A. McCarthy, PhD, is a Professor of Psychology at Kennesaw State University.
Jane S. Halonen is Professor of Psychology and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of West Florida.
Suzanne C. Baker, Ph.D., is a Professor and an Assistant Department Head of the Department of Psychology at James Madison University.