ASSURANCE SECTION REPORT OF A COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION VISIT TO University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska January 8---10, 2007 FOR The Higher Learning Commission A Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools EVALUATION TEAM Lynn L. Walker (Team Chair) Assistant to Academic Dean, Registrar, Education Consortium Liaison Director, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, Kansas City, MO 64106 Donna McCarty Beckett, Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53792 Mark L. Cummings, Associate Dean, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 Victoria M. Fleming, Director of Education and Faculty Development in the Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611 William R. Hendee, Distinguished Professor, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226 Steven L. Ludwig, Vice President for Administrative Affairs, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN 56301 Lisa A. Wallace, Interim Director, Physician Assistant Program, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515
Transcript
ASSURANCE SECTION
REPORT OF A COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION VISIT
TO
University of Nebraska Medical CenterOmaha, Nebraska
January 8---10, 2007
FOR
The Higher Learning Commission
A Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
EVALUATION TEAM
Lynn L. Walker (Team Chair) Assistant to Academic Dean, Registrar, Education Consortium
Liaison Director, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, Kansas City, MO 64106
Donna McCarty Beckett, Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53792
Mark L. Cummings, Associate Dean, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824
Victoria M. Fleming, Director of Education and Faculty Development in the Department of
Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611
William R. Hendee, Distinguished Professor, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
53226
Steven L. Ludwig, Vice President for Administrative Affairs, St. Cloud State University, St.
Cloud, MN 56301
Lisa A. Wallace, Interim Director, Physician Assistant Program, Midwestern University, Downers
Grove, IL 60515
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Contents
I. Context and Nature of Visit ..................................................................................... 3
II. Commitment to Peer Review...................................................................................21
III. Compliance with Federal Requirements.................................................................21
IV. Fulfillment of the Criteria.........................................................................................21
a. Criterion One………………………………………………………………………..22
b. Criterion Two ……………………………………………………………………….24
c. Criterion Three………………………………………………………………………26
d. Criterion Four ……………………………………………………………………….28
e. Criterion Five ………………………………………………………………………..30
f. Distance Learning: UNMC Request for a Change …………………………… 32
V. Affiliation Status……………………………………………………………………………..35
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I. CONTEXT AND NATURE OF VISIT
A. Purpose of Visit
The purpose of visit to the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) was to evaluate
the institution for continued accreditation, and to assess its capability to deliver online
educational programs. The University is seeking authorization to offer distance education
programs without the necessity to seek NCA-HLC approval prior to the start of individual
programs in the future.
B. Organizational Context
The University of Nebraska Medical Center is a public academic health science center with
four campuses located in Omaha, Lincoln, Kearney, and Scottsbluff. UNMC is one of four
University of Nebraska institutions and has a chancellor, faculty senate, and separate
budget. UNMC enrolls approximately 3,000 students in Colleges of Medicine, Nursing,
Dentistry, and Pharmacy, the School of Allied Health Professions, the Graduate Studies
Program, and the College of Public Health. UNMC is a research intensive academic health
center with extramural research funding approaching $80 million annually.
C. Unique Aspects of Visit
The University of Nebraska Medical Center has built new physical facilities, strengthened its
educational programs, increased research funding three-fold, accelerated progress toward
higher expectations, and gained national and international recognition since the last site
visit. The administration has purported to be “Building a World-Renown Health Center.”
D. Sites or Branch Campuses Visited
The Team was based on the Omaha campus, which incorporates the Colleges of Medicine,
Pharmacy, Nursing, and Public Health, and the School of Allied Health Professionals, visited
the College of Dentistry located in Lincoln. An interactive synchronous visual/digital
communication meeting provided the Team the opportunity to confer with the faculty at the
Kearney and Scottsbluff Campuses.
E. Distance Education Reviewed
The Team reviewed the distance educational capabilities of the medical center and
addressed the request by UNMC for authority to offer online educational offerings.
F. Interactions with Constituencies
Date: 1-8-07
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Meeting: Introduction with Chancellor & Invitees
Harold M. Maurer Chancellor UNMC
Don Leuenberger Vice Chancellor, Business & Finance UNMC
Bruce Buehler Director MMI MMI/COM
Bob Bartee Vice Chancellor, External Affairs UNMC
Gregory Karst Professor COM, SAHP
Kyle Meyer Associate Dean SAHP, COM
Virginia Tilden Dean CON
Tom Rosenquist Vice Chancellor, Research UNMC
John Gollan Dean COM
Clarence Ueda Dean COP
Rod Markin Senior Associate Dean COM, UNMC Physicians
Ward Chambers Executive Director of Community & Multicultural Affairs
UNMC
Mary Helms Associate Professor, ExecutiveCommittee
Library
Jay Noren Dean COPH
David A. Crouse Associate Vice Chancellor, AcademicAffairs, Executive Committee
UNMC
Rubens J. Pamies Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs UNMC
Yvette Holly Associate Vice Chancellor ITS
Ken Cowan Director Eppley Institute
Glenn FosdickJohn Adams
John Benson
President and CEOAssistant Vice Chancellor, Executive
CommitteeProfessor, Coordinator Executive
Committee
Nebraska Medical Center Hospital
UNMCCOM
Date: 1-8-07Meeting: Finance Meeting
John Adams Assistant Vice Chancellor, Budget &Strategic Planning, ExecutiveCommittee
UNMC
Don Leuenberger Vice Chancellor, Business & Finance UNMC
Date: 1-8-07Meeting: Self Study Process
David Crouse Associate Vice Chancellor, Executive Committee Academic AffairsMary Helms Associate Director, Executive Committee LibraryJohn A Benson, Jr. Professor, Internal Medicine, Executive Committee
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Date: 1-8-07Meeting: President Milliken
J.B. Milliken President University of Nebraska
Date: 1-8-07Meeting: Luncheon with Chancellor, President, and Regent
Harold M. Maurer Chancellor UNMCJ.B. Milliken President University of NebraskaCharles Wilson Regent Board of Regents
Date: 1-8-07Meeting: Eppley Institute
Joyce Solheim Associate Professor and CRGP Director Eppley InstituteMatt Winfrey Assistant Director Eppley InstituteKen Cowan Director Eppley InstituteAngie Rizzino Professor Eppley Institute
Date: 1-8-07Meeting: Board of Counselors
Ted Hazer Board of Counselors Chancellor’s OfficeRick Russell Board of Counselors Chancellor’s OfficeTawanna Black Board of Counselors Chancellor’s Office
Date: 1-8-07Meeting: Munroe-Meyer Institute
J. Michael Leibowitz Deputy Director MMI/Associate Professor Pediatrics MMIBruce Buehler Director MMI/Chair of Pediatrics MMI/COMJoseph H. Evans Associate Director MMI/Professor Pediatrics MMI
Date: 1-8-07Meeting: Student Senate Officers
Dan Connealy President, Student Regent COMMike Furasek Vice President COMCasey Bowen Vice President Elect COMJonathan Henning President Elect COMSarah Keim Senator Graduate StudiesDrew Klinkebiel Treasurer COP
Date: 1-8-07Meeting: Student Forum
Dan Connealy President – Student Senate COMBob Lundholm Student CONKim Schlautman Student CONJessica Glatter Student CONElizabeth Berry Student CONChad Miller Student CON
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Date: 1-8-07Meeting: Foundation and Alumni Affairs
Robert Bartee Vice Chancellor, External Affairs UNMCKimberley Cuda Director, Alumni Affairs UNMCJohn Niemann Senior Vice President University of Nebraska Foundation
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Date: 1-9-07Meeting: College of Public Health, Graduate College, Continuing Education
Keith Mueller Professor and Research Center Director Preventive and Societal MedicineRubens Pamies Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs UNMCJay Noren Dean College of Public HealthLois Colburn Executive Director for Continuing Education Academic AffairsJames Anderson Professor and Chair, Preventive and Societal
MedicineCOM, COPH
Date: 1-9-07Meeting: College of Nursing Deans
Virginia Tilden Dean CONMary Megel Interim Associate Dean, Undergrad CONMargaret Wilson Associate Dean, Grad Program CONMary Cramer Department Chair CONAnn Berger Associate Dean, Research CONCheryl Thompson Assistant Dean Informatics & Learning CONKathy Fiandt Director, Morehead Center CON
Date: 1-9-07Meeting: Student Assessment
Charles H. Krobot, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs COPRobert Binhammer Professor of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy COMMary Megel Interim Associate Dean CONKyle Meyer Associate Dean SAHPCatherine Bevil Director of Evaluation CONMargaret Wilson Associate Dean, Graduate Program CONDavid Crouse Associate Vice Chancellor, Executive Committee Academic AffairsGerald Moore Senior Associate Dean of Academic Affairs COMCurt Kuster via phone conference Professor CODDavid Brown via phoneconference
Executive Associate Dean COD
Mike Molvor via phoneconference
Associate Professor COD
Date: 1-9-07Meeting: Distance Education
Yvette Holly Assistant Vice Chancellor, ITS UNMCDan Moser Associate Director ITSTom Birk Senior Education Designer ITSDavid Crouse Associate Vice Chancellor, Executive Committee Academic AffairsMary Helms Associate Professor, Executive Committee Library
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Date: 1-9-07Meeting: College of Pharmacy Deans
Charles H. Krobot Associate Dean For Academic Affairs COPClarence Ueda Dean COP
Date: 1-9-07Meeting: Luncheon with Faculty Senate
Myrna C. Newland Director of Equity Office UNMCDebra J. Romberger Vice Chair Research, Dept Internal Medicine COMDaniel Halm Assistant Professor, Family Medicine COMGordon Todd Professor, Genetics, Cell Biology & Anatomy COMWarren Sanger Professor, Pediatrics & Pathology/Microbiology COMPeggy Tidikis-Menck Assistant Professor CONMary Helms Associate Professor LibraryKaren Honeycutt Assistant Professor SAHPGregory Karst Professor, Faculty Senate President SAHP/COMLuis Marky Professor COP
Date: 1-9-07Meeting: Faculty and Staff Forum
Gloria Gross Associate Professor CONBill Lawlor Director of Financial Compliance Business & FinanceKim Strohbehn Administrator ITSGreg Bennett Associate Professor GCBASharon Welna Associate Director of Compliance ITSMary Helms Associate Professor, Executive Committee LibraryKaren Schumacher Associate Professor CONJeanne Ferbrache Director Academic AffairsJessica Tschirren Program Coordinator MPH, GPHJumoke Omojola MPH Program Technician MPH, GPHJohn Sharp Professor COM, GCBALisa Spellman Communications Specialist Public AffairsCharles Krobot Associate Dean COPJohn Benson Professor, Internal Medicine COMRobert Binhammer Professor COM, GCBALinda Sykora Faculty CLS Program SAHPVictoria Cerino Media Coordinator Public AffairsPi-Wan Cheng Professor BMBJanice Tompkins Assistant Professor SAHPTerry Hexum Professor COMSandy Goetzinger-Comer Director Public AffairsMaurice Godfrey Associate Professor Pediatrics/MMI COMTom Rosenquist Vice Chancellor ResearchRobert Lewis Professor EppleyPaula Turpen Director Research Resources Vice Chancellor of ResearchCheryl Thompson Assistant Dean Information & Learning CONFran Higgins Administrative Assistant I SAHPRoxann Pierce Coordinator, Educational Programs COMMyrna Newland Director, Equity Office UNMCCarol Toris Director, Glaucoma Research COMBill Lydiatt Head and Neck Surgery COMMary Wendl Business Manager CON
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Date: 1-9-07Meeting: Faculty and StaffForum (Continued)Emily Wahl Program Associate CONCarol Pullen Professor CONSusan Noble Walker Professor CONNancy Woelfl Director & Professor LibraryJohn Niemann Senior Vice President University of Nebraska
FoundationPat Hoffman Video Services Technician ITSMarsha Morien Administrator Business & FinanceJoyce Black Associate Professor CONJill Carson Community Relations Specialist CHUJohn Adams Assistant Vice Chancellor Business & FinanceMarlene Lindeman Assistant Professor CONCheryl West Assistant Professor CONCindy Sutton Administrator COMDavid Crouse Associate Vice Chancellor Academic AffairsJessica Brummer Special Events Coordinator Public AffairsWilliam O’Neill Associate Director Public AffairsRubens Pamies Vice Chancellor Academic AffairsKathy Kaiser Associate Professor CONKim Laursen Education Coordinator ITSAmy Volk Development University of Nebraska
FoundationRick Boldt Manager, Facilities Management & Planning UNMCSarah Thompson Associate Dean CONKaren Murphy Associate Professor & Department Chair CONDavid Holtzclaw Instructor COMKathy Stubbs Office Associate, Internal Medicine COMConnie Visovsky Associate Professor CONRita Snyder Associate Professor CONJohn McClain Associate Vice Chancellor Academic AffairsMary McNamee Assistant Vice Chancellor Academic AffairsJoel Bessmer Associate Professor COMJohn Russell Director of HR Business & FinanceGlen Houpt Director, Safety Business & FinanceDeborah Vetter Director, Sponsored Programs Administration ResearchSheila Wrobel Compliance Officer Academic AffairsPat Hageman Director PT Education SAHPGreg Karst Associate Director, PT Education SAHPJudith Walker Executive Director Student Services Academic AffairsHugh Stoddard Director of Curriculum Development COMKaren Burbach Communications Coordinator Public AffairsTheresa Cassiday Web/online Communications Coordinator Public AffairsYvette Holly Assistant Vice Chancellor ITSRowen Zetterman Professor of Internal Medicine COMKyle Meyer Associate Dean SAHPDan Moser Associate Director ITSKaren Honeycutt CLS Program Education Coordinator SAHPLinda Fell LLS Program Director SAHPLyn Klassen Chairman, Internal Medicine COMLinda Auger Administrator COMShelly Baldwin Administrator III COMGabriella Castro Program Coordinator MMIKimberly Cuda Director, Alumni Affairs UNMC
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Pat Hoffman Video Services Facilitator Video ServicesCheryl Thompson Assistant Dean for Informatics CONMaggie Winnicki DE Administrative Coordinator SAHPDan Moser Associate Director ITSTom Birk Senior Educator Designer ITS
Kyle Meyer Associate Dean SAHPJohn Gollan Dean COMMike McGlade Senior Associate Dean, Administration COMGerald Moore Senior Associate Dean, Education COMRobert Wigton Associate Dean, GME COMRod Markin Senior Associate Dean, Clinical Affairs COM
Date: 1-9-07Meeting: School of Allied Health Professions
Kyle Meyer Associate Dean SAHPMary Haven Emeritus Associate Dean SAHPKaren Honeycutt Assistant Professor, CLS Program Coordinator SAHPJohn Gollan Dean COM
Date: 1-9-07Meeting: College of Dentistry
Mary Lynn Froeschle Director of Continuing Education CODGwen Hlava Chair, Department of Dental Hygiene CODKathy Carroll Administrative Director CODBruce Bavitz Chair, Surgical Specialties CODMerlyn Vogt Director, Alumni Affairs CODCurtis Kuster Assistant Dean, Admissions & Student Affairs CODJoan Sivers Assistant Dean of Clinics CODDennis Kent Assistant Dean, Advanced Clinical Programs CODTom Dunn Director of Information Systems CODDavid Shaw Chair, Department of Oral Biology CODMichael Molvar Assistant Dean COD
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Jeffrey Payne Associate Dean for Research CODWilliam Johnson Vice Chair ARD CODDavid Brown Executive Associate Dean CODTimothy Durham Hospital Dentistry Chair CODJohn Reinhardt Dean COD
Date: 1-10-07Meeting: Chancellor Maurer
Harold M. Maurer Chancellor UNMC
Date: 1-10-07Meeting: Graduate Studies/Post-Docs
David Crouse Associate Vice Chancellor, Executive Committee UNMCRubens Pamies Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs UNMCIqbal Ahmad Assistant Dean, Academic Affairs UNMC
Date: 1-10-07Meeting: Diversity
Rubens Pamies Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs UNMCWard Chambers Executive Director, Community &
Multicultural AffairsCommunity Partnership
John Russell Assistant Vice Chancellor for Human Relations UNMCMary McNamee Assistant Vice Chancellor, Student Equity &
Sharon Welna Associate Director ITSTom Rosenquist Vice Chancellor, Research UNMCGail Paulsen IRB Administrator IRBSheila Wrobel Compliance Officer/Privacy Officer Academic AffairsDeborah Vetter Director, Sponsored Programs Administration VC of ResearchMichael Dixon Director, Intellectual Property UneMed/VC ResearchPaula Turpen Director , Research Resources VC Research
James Linder Associate Vice Chancellor, Research, PresidentUNeMed
VC Research
David Crouse Associate Vice Chancellor, Executive Committee Academic AffairsJames B Turpen Executive Chair IACUC Academic AffairsSteve Dixon Director, Comparative Medicine Vice Chancellor Research
Date: 1-10-07Meeting: Wrap-up with Chancellor and Invitees
Harold M. Maurer Chancellor UNMCDavid A. Crouse Associate Vice Chancellor,
Executive CommitteeAcademic Affairs
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John Reinhardt Dean CODJohn Adams Assistant Vice Chancellor,
Budget & Strategic Planning, ExecutiveCommittee
UNMC
Mary Helms Associate Professor, Executive Committee LibraryGregory Karst Professor, Faculty Senate President SAPHDon Leuenberger Vice Chancellor, Business & Finance BusinessTom Rosenquist Vice Chancellor ResearchBob Bartee Vice Chancellor External AffairsJohn Benson Professor of Internal Medicine, Executive
CommitteeCOM
Glenn Fosdick President & CEO Nebraska Medical CenterJohn Gollan Dean COMClarence Ueda Dean COPKen Cowan Director, Eppley Institute Eppley InstituteDan Connealy Student Regent COMYvette Holly Assistant Vice Chancellor ITSKyle Meyer Associate Dean SAHPWard Chambers Executive Director, Community & Multicultural
AffairsCommunity Partnership
Jay Noren Dean COPHVirginia Tilden Dean CONRod Markin Senior Associate Dean COMBruce Buehler Director MMI MMI/COMRubens J. Pamies Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs UNMC
G. Principal Documents, Materials, and Web Pages Reviewed
MATERIALS OF INTEREST (Resource Room)
Reference Name
UNMC Institutional DataUniversity of Nebraska Board of Regents Bylaws Policies and ProceduresUniversity of Nebraska Budget (Self-Study Chapter 3 reference #33)UNMC Administration - Chancellor's CouncilUNMC Facilities Development Plan (Self-Study Chapter 2 reference #28)UNMC Strategic Plan 2005-2006UNMC Strategic Plan 2006-2007UNMC Unit Mission statements (Self-Study Chapter 1 reference #4)UNMC Competencies for Graduates (Self-Study Chapter 3 reference #3) College of Dentistry 2005 Outcomes Assessment Report College of Nursing Selected Outcomes Measures CON Undergraduate Surveys CON Undergraduate Alumni Surveys CON Master's Exit Survey CON Undergraduate Nursing Courses College of Medicine Educational Program Review College of Pharmacy Programmatic Assessments 2006
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Graduate Program Review
MATERIALS OF INTEREST (continued)
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 1998-2005 Cancer Research 1998-2005 Cellular and Integrative Physiology 1998-2005 Genetics, Cell Biology & Anatomy 1998-2005 Medical Sciences Interdepartmental Area 1998-2004 Nursing 1998-2005, Fall 2006 Pathology and Microbiology 1998-2005 Pharmaceutical Sciences 1994-1998 Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience 1998-2005 Public Health 1998-2005 Toxicology 1998-2005 COM School of Allied Health Professions Summary of Educational Outcomes Assessment for 2000-2004 Dietetic Internship Program Student Syllabus 2004-2005UNMC Professional Program Accreditation Self Studies (Self-Study Chapter 3 reference #7) College of Dentistry 2000 College of Dentistry - Dental Hygiene 2000 College of Dentistry - Dental Hygiene - West Division 2003 College of Medicine (CD-ROM and Executive Summary) 2005 College of Nursing 1999 College of Pharmacy 2000 & 2006 Master of Public Health Program 2003 COM School of Allied Health Professions Clinical Perfusion 2004 Cytotechnology 2005-2006 Diagnostic Medical Sonography 2004 Medical Technology 2004 Nuclear Medicine Technology 2004 Physical Therapy Volumes 1-3 2004 Physician Assistant 2004 Radiation Science - Radiation Therapy, Volumes A-C 2006 Radiation Science - Radiography, Volumes A-C 2006
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SELF- STUDY REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION
Reference # Reference Name
1 UNMC Facilities Development Plan2 Plans for Sorrell Center for Health Science Education3 In the Loop: Self-Study Team and Campus Communication Strategies
CHAPTER 1
Reference # Reference Name
1 Faculty, Staff and Student NCA Survey Results2 University of Nebraska Role & Mission3 University of Nebraska Strategic Planning Framework Document4 All UNMC Unit Mission statements5 UNMC - TNMC Partnership, merger facts and timeline6 UNMC Physicians Mission Statement7 University of Nebraska Statement on Diversity
University of Nebraska 5 year Plan for Diversity8 UNMC NU Values Program9 UNMC International Studies and Programs10 UNMC Today article (April 2006)11 UNMC Today Plan Achievements article12 UNMC Today and UNMC Discover Mission-relevant articles13 Board of Regents membership14 Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education (CCPE)15 Administrative Colloquium16 Public Health Leadership Program17 Student Leadership Academy18 Board of Regents, Code of Ethics19 University of Nebraska Bioethics Committee Report
20Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research (CAMR) and International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) website
21 UNMC Compliance Program22 UNMC Ombudsman Team
CHAPTER 2
Reference # Reference Name
1 Faculty, Staff and Student North Central Association Survey Results2 UNMC Planning Information and Quality Indicators3 UNMC Environmental Scans4 Legislative Restrictions on Research5 Diversity Activities
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6 Minority Health Research ProgramsSELF- STUDYREFERENCES
(Continued)
7 Cultural Competence Survey8 UNMC Employment Website9 Minority Student Recruiting and Retention10 Faculty Diversity Funding Procedures11 Health Professions Tracking Center12 Nebraska Public Health Lab-BioSecurity Preparedness Laboratory13 NU Center for Biosecurity14 Nebraska Center for Bioterrorism Education15 Intellectual Property Office
UNeMed Corporation16 2004 Report of the Regents Ad Hoc Gender Equity Committee17 Office of Postdoctoral Education18 Gallup University Leadership Workshops19 Campus Seminars and Events20 Employee Tuition Remission Program21 Employee Reward and Recognition22 LB 605 Renovation Projects23 Information Technology Services Strategic Plan24 Preston Technology Transfer Consultation25 Institutional Research Office26 Investing in Nebraska's Future27 UNMC Strategic Planning Retreat28 UNMC Facilities Development Plan, 2006-201529 NU 2006-2012 Capital Queue
30The Nebraska Medical Center: Strategy Development Philosophy and Strategic Plan, for 2003-2006
31 NU Foundation32 UNMC Alumni Affairs Office33 University of Nebraska Budget
CHAPTER 3
Reference # Reference Name
1 Shulman, Lee S. Signature Pedagogies in the Professions2 U S. News World Report Guidebook to America's Best Graduate Schools3 Competencies for Graduates
College of Dentistry 2005 Outcomes Assessment Report College of Nursing Selected Outcomes Measures CON Undergraduate Surveys CON Undergraduate Alumni Surveys CON Master's Exit Survey CON Undergraduate Nursing Courses College of Medicine Educational Program Review College of Pharmacy Programmatic Assessments 2006
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Graduate Program Review Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 1998-2005
SELF- STUDYREFERENCES
(Continued) Cancer Research 1998-2005 Cellular and Integrative Physiology 1998-2005 Genetics, Cell Biology & Anatomy 1998-2005 Medical Sciences Interdepartmental Area 1998-2004 Nursing 1998-2005, Fall 2006 Pathology and Microbiology 1998-2005 Pharmaceutical Sciences 1994-1998 Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience 1998-2005 Public Health 1998-2005 Toxicology 1998-2005 COM School of Allied Health Professions Summary of Educational Outcomes Assessment for 2000-2004 Dietetic Internship Program Student Syllabus 2004-2005
4 Diagram of Clinical Skills Training Rooms in Sorrell Center - Floor plan5 Confidentiality Agreement6 Responsible Conduct in Research7 Professional Program Accreditation Self Studies
College of Dentistry 2000 College of Dentistry - Dental Hygiene 2000 College of Dentistry - Dental Hygiene - West Division 2003 College of Medicine (CD-ROM and Executive Summary) 2005 College of Nursing 1999 College of Pharmacy 2000 & 2006 Master of Public Health Program 2003 COM School of Allied Health Professions Clinical Perfusion 2004 Cytotechnology 2005-2006 Diagnostic Medical Sonography 2004 Medical Technology 2004 Nuclear Medicine Technology 2004 Physical Therapy Volumes 1-3 2004 Physician Assistant 2004 Radiation Science - Radiation Therapy, Volumes A-C 2006 Radiation Science - Radiography, Volumes A-C 2006
8 2005 Survey Results9 Guidelines Graduate Programs Review10 Boyer, Ernest L., Scholarship Reconsidered: Priorities of the Professoriate11 Campus & Unit Promotion and Tenure Guidelines12 Board of Regents Bylaws and Policies; Appointment Types13 Faculty Development Programs14 Learning Environment/Internet Services Program15 NU University-wide Departmental Teaching Award16 Office of International Studies and Programs17 Student Alliance for Global Health18 University of Nebraska Distance Education Coordinating Council Policies
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and Procedure Recommendations Executive Summary
19 COD Continuing Dental Education/UNMC Center for Continuing EducationSELF- STUDYREFERENCES
(Continued) UNMC Center for Continuing Education
20 Eppley Cancer Institute's Short Course on Cancer Biology21 UNMC Mini-Medical Schools for the Public22 Student Retention Data23 McGoogan Library of Medicine24 eDoc, a Repository of Simulations and Learning Objectives25 Academic Success Program
CHAPTER 4
Reference # Reference Name
1 Scholarship Reconsidered - Priorities of the Professoriate2 US News & World Report Rankings3 Research Survey4 Core Facilities5 Clinical Research Center6 Clinical Trials Office7 Eppley Cancer Center8 Comparative Medicine9 Office of the VCR10 Office of Government Relations11 Intellectual Property Office12 SWAT analysis by TIG13 Association for Assessment & Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care
Association for Accreditation of Human Research Protection Program14 LCME Accreditation Report Summary (see COM LCME CD for full report)15 Code of Conduct16 Student Handbook17 Faculty Handbook18 Ombuds Team website19 Research Integrity Policy20 Ethics Day materials21 Bioethics Committee22 CITI IRB Training23 Campus Crime Statistics24 Board of Regents Policy 4.4225 Intellectual Property Office Materials
CHAPTER 5
Reference # Reference Name
1 All UNMC Unit Mission statements
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SELF- STUDYREFERENCES
(Continued)
2 JD Power Award3 Rural Health Education Network4 Nebraska Public Health Lab-BioSecurity Preparedness Laboratory5 NU Center for Biosecurity6 UNMC Alumni Affairs7 Consumer Health Information Service8 healthHQ9 UNeMed10 Destination Midtown11 UNMC Mini-Medical School12 Public opinion survey
CHAPTER 6 Reference Name
University of Nebraska Supplement Forms Distance Education Statistics (pages 150-188) location is Chapter 2 # 33
SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS (Resource Room)
University of Nebraska Board of Regents: Bylaws Policies and ProceduresChancellor's CouncilUNMC Strategic Plan 2005-2006UNMC Strategic Plan 2006-2007Binder: Updated Organizational Charts Peer Institutions Institutional Snapshot Higher Learning Commission Annual Institutional Data UpdateSelf-Study ReportUnit Accomplishments FY 2005-2006The Nebraska Medical CenterThe Nebraska Medical Center UNMC Merger & Academic AffiliationAcademic AffairsAlumni AffairsBusiness & FinanceCenter for Continuing EducationCore FacilitiesInformation Technology Services Volumes 1-2McGoogan Library of Medicine Volumes 1-4Rural Health Education NetworkAcademic Affiliation Agreements
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SUPPLEMENTALMATERIALS(Continued) Community Outreach
PlanningCampus Publications
Teaching AwardsCollege of Dentistry COD NCA Information 2006College of MedicineCollege of Nursing CON Continuous Improvement Progress Report 2004College of Pharmacy COP Faculty Development Program 2004College of Public HealthSchool of Allied Health Professions SAHP Strategic Planning Retreat 2006Eppley Institute/Cancer Center Volumes 1-3Monroe Meyer Institute
REACCREDITATION PROCESS (Resource Room)
The Higher Learning Commission Handbook of AccreditationUNMC Reaccreditation Process 2005 & 2006 Surveys2005 - 2007 UNMC Reaccreditation Executive Committee2005 - 2007 UNMC Reaccreditation Steering CommitteeUNMC Reaccreditation Process 2005 - 2007 Volumes 1-3
DESKTOP COMPUTERS INFORMATION (Resource Room)
UNMC Self-StudyUNMC Institutional DataReference Room IndexUNMC Policies & ProceduresFaculty HandbookStudent HandbookCollege of Dentistry BulletinCollege of Medicine BulletinCollege of Nursing BulletinCollege of Pharmacy BulletinGraduate Studies BulletinSchool of Health Professions Bulletin
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II. COMMITMENT TO PEER REVIEW
A. Comprehensiveness of the Self-Study Process
The Team found UNMC’s self-study process to be thorough and comprehensive. UNMCutilized the College Assessment Program to provide the framework for comprehensiveevaluation of all aspects of the programmatic and regional accreditations. The processinvolved a self-study committee and subcommittee memberships, which was representativeof all the Colleges’ constituencies. The document indicates the committees were engaged inidentifying UNMC’s strengths and challenges, and suggested recommendations forimprovement.
B. Integrity of the Self-Study Report
The Team found the UNMC’s Self-Study Report to be highly accurate, evaluative, candid,and practical. The document focused clearly on evidence in support of the Criteria forAccreditation, and provided the team the necessary information to make judgments aboutUNMC in relation to the Criteria. The Self Study Report demonstrated that UNMCunderstands the Criteria and the Core Components.
C. Adequacy of Progress in Addressing Previously Identified Challenges
The Team considers the response of the organization to previously identified challenges to beadequate.
D. Notification of Evaluation Visit and Solicitation of Third-Party Comment
The Team verified that third party comment was solicited and appropriate notification of theevaluation visit was published in newspapers in the geographic area.Requirements were fulfilled.
III. COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS
The Team reviewed the required Title IV compliance areas and the student complaintinformation.
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IV. FULFILLMENT OF THE CRITERIA
CRITERION ONE: MISSION AND INTEGRITY. The organization operates withintegrity to ensure the fulfillment of its mission through structures and processes that involvethe board, administration, faculty, staff, and students.
1. Evidence that Core Components are met
The documentation supplied by the University of Nebraska Medical Center providedsound evidence the institution operates with integrity to ensure the fulfillment of itsmission through structures and processes that involve the Board of Regents, thePresident, the Chancellor, program administrators, faculty, staff, and students.
The UNMC mission documents are clear and articulate publicly the organization’scommitments to improve the health of Nebraska. The mission statement is noted onemployee badges and college brochures and websites. The four components of theUNMC mission statement are evident in strategic planning documents and in publicationsavailable to the public.
The UNMC administration and faculty recognize the diversity of its learners, otherconstituencies, and the greater society it serves. Strategic planning documents, clinicalpractice, and service learning experiences address health care needs of underservedminority populations in urban Omaha and underserved rural communities across the state.The chancellor communicates directly with UNMC constituencies in Omaha and the stateof Nebraska through a 50-member Board of Counselors. Faculty are actively engaged inteaching and service at distant sites across the state. UNMC’s progressive cultureencourages students and faculty to reach out through service to local and regionalminority clients. Institution-wide core behaviors reflect a commitment to respect fordiversity.
Understanding of and support for UNMC’s mission pervades the organization from thestudent level through the President’s office and to the Board of Regents. Students wereable to express the mission and philosophy of UNMC based on their experiences andobservations in the academic programs and clinical settings. Students appreciated andarticulated how increased faculty research programs enriched their curricula, learningexperiences, and quality of patient care. Faculty awards given at the College andUniversity level recognize achievement toward the mission-driven goals.
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The UNMC governance and administration structure promote effective leadership andsupport collaborative processes that enable the organization to fulfill its mission. Theseorganizational structures are clear and public at all levels of the University and Colleges.
The Chancellor’s and President’s Councils meet monthly, and the Board of Counselorsmeet three times a year. Up to 80 faculty and administrators meet each spring to revisitand revise the Strategic Plan, and similar planning exercises are conducted at the Collegelevel. Members of the Chancellor’s Council participate in an annual retreat to “think out-side the box” on initiatives to accomplish mission-driven goals. A culture of delegatedauthority permeates administrative practices, and the governance, leadership structure,and operations are commendable.
UNMC’s administrative and operational structures uphold and protect the institutionalintegrity at the campus and college level. A Conflict of Interest Committee has beencreated to ensure that education, research and patient care are handled honestly andethically. Personnel and technical systems are properly developed to ensure that datasystems are well protected and secure. The Chancellor and administrative officers arevery careful to honor donor agreements and promises, and have developed straight-forward communications to exemplify trustworthiness. Open lines of communicationbetween students, faculty and administration prevail throughout the organization. Theinstitution operates legally, responsibly, and with fiscal honesty.
2. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components need organizationalattention
None noted
3. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components require Commissionfollow-up.
None noted
4. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components are not met and require Commission follow-up. (Sanction or adverse action may be warranted.)
None noted
Recommendation of the Team
Criterion is met; no Commission follow-up recommended.
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CRITERION TWO: PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE. The organization’s allocation ofresources and its processes for evaluation and planning demonstrate its capacity to fulfill itsmission, improve the quality of its education, and respond to future challenges andopportunities.
1. Evidence that Core Components are met
UNMC has strong leadership and an effective administrative team, which has the abilityto develop strategies and implement solutions. The UNMC community members, staffand faculty were cognizant and appreciative of this effective stewardship. Institutionalprogress was noted at all levels of the organization since the last comprehensive visit andis testimony to this capable leadership.
The self study report, financial documents, and conversations with staff confirm thatUNMC receives significant financial support from diverse sources including stateappropriations, tuition, sponsored research, tobacco settlement funds, endowment,philanthropy and clinical income. Diversity in the sources of income has contributed tostability, the ability to respond to change, and opportunities for growth. Financialstrength for the last four years is confirmed by indicators such as continuing growth innet assets, and strong current asset to current liability ratios. UNMC maintains a healthyfinancial position.
UNMC, through the University of Nebraska Foundation, has had exceptional success ingarnering philanthropic support and managing endowed assets. The Universityendowment has grown from $200 million to $1.5 billion in the last 10 years with anaverage annual return on assets of 12.1%. A culture of philanthropy was evident inmeetings across campus, including students who spoke both of willingly giving service tothe wider community and engaging donors at a gala for the benefit of the UNMC cancerresearch. The institution is appropriately engaged in philanthropic endeavors.
The Facilities Master Plan, Capital Improvement Plan, and Facilities Condition and UseAssessment documents describe ambitious development of new facilities and infra-structure, and renewal of existing buildings. These campus improvements are supportedby a combination of philanthropy, state appropriations and bonding. The bondingcapacity has been used prudently to advance projects as confirmed by favorable bondratings. The Master Plan is clearly being advanced “on the ground” as was evident withnew buildings under construction. Future plans for land acquisition and favorable zoningconsiderations by the Omaha City government will provide for more efficient use offacilities, integration of campus functionality, and flexibility in the future. Theseplanning processes and actions are inclusive of the facilities across Nebraska and theOmaha campus. The UNMC has an effective facilities planning process.
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Review of financial documents, capital expenditures, and plans and tours of campusfacilities corroborate that UNMC has made material and effective efforts to reducedeferred maintenance and functional obsolescence of facilities, while enhancing researchand instruction. New research facilities, including the instructional and infrastructurecomponents, have been placed in service during the last five years and additional researchfacilities are under construction. Plans are in place for renovation of existing facilities,including the College of Dentistry in Lincoln.
The mission, planning documents, and practices affirm that UNMC has a primaryphysical presence in Omaha and a commitment to serve the entire State---the “500 milewide campus” as denoted by staff and faculty. On-line programs, student recruitingstrategies, instructional facilities in key locations, a network of preceptors and clinicalsites, mobile services, and top leadership engagement confirm this commitment to theentire State of Nebraska.
UNMC has developed the appropriate technology to facilitate effective instruction inboth the classroom and lab and at distance facilities across the State. The technologyinvestment has enhanced opportunities for student learning. A distance educationdemonstration illustrated capacity and ability to effectively include students, faculty andstaff from distant sites in meetings, discussions, and decisions. The level of instructionaltechnology is appropriate and reliable for instruction and communications.
The strategic plan and other planning documents are interconnected and regularlyreviewed. The Planning Information and Quality Indicators Report is prepared annuallywith metrics to assess progress, reviewed each year in a top management retreat, and theresults are published on campus. The annual review includes consideration ofmeasurable accomplishments, relevancy of existing strategies, and the inclusion of newstrategies. The planning process for guiding the institution is exceptional.
2. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components need organizationalattentionNone noted.
3. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components require Commissionfollow-up.None noted
4. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components are not met and requireCommission follow-up. (Sanction or adverse action may be warranted.)None noted
Recommendation of the TeamCriterion is met; no Commission follow-up recommended.
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CRITERION THREE: STUDENT LEARNING AND EFFECTIVE TEACHING.The organization provides evidence of student learning and teaching effectiveness thatdemonstrates it is fulfilling its educational mission.
1. Evidence that Core Components are met
The organization’s goals for student learning outcomes are clearly stated for eacheducational program and make effective assessment possible. Faculty oversight ofcurricula appears to be adequate in each academic unit. Educational programs carryspecialized accreditation status within their designated disciplines and meet the standardsdetermined by their professional accreditation bodies. The number of programs withcurrent accredited status indicates that program directors and faculty are providingeffective leadership of programs.
The organization adequately addresses the distinction between undergraduate andgraduate level education. The College of Nursing has a curriculum subcommittee thathas representation from both the graduate and undergraduate curriculum committees toevaluate and compare course content and course objectives of both programs.
The University has recruited and developed an effective and dedicated faculty to providethe teaching and learning for the students of UNMC. The Colleges of Nursing,Pharmacy, Dentistry, Medicine, and some programs in the SAHP utilize a Web-basedevaluation tool called UNMC Eval, which supports the evaluation of students, faculty,and courses. The system generates reports utilized by the College administration and thefaculty to make improvements in the educational efforts. A UNMC educational unit haswon the prestigious NU-wide Departmental Teaching Award four of the last 10 years.
UNMC considers the best measure of teaching effectiveness to be the studentachievement of graduation, licensure, employment, and certification by national standard-setting bodies. UNMC students do extremely well on national standardized testing andthe composite scores place the programs in the top tier of all the national programs.
Indirect assessment data are provided with student surveys and pass rates on nationalexams. Programs are thoroughly evaluated by student surveys, passage rates on licensingand certification exams are published and distributed, and appear to be consistently abovenational averages across programs. The CON has very strong initiatives, including focusgroups and follow up surveys, and other programs could emulate the nursing initiatives.
Programs have independent and active curriculum committees that address both contentand teaching process issues. Student leaders report recent instances in which studentsuggestions for change were implemented within a year.
Excellent and effective teaching is rewarded and recognized through a variety of awardsat both the program and institutional levels. Faculty development programs and servicessupport improved pedagogies. The faculty and administrative communities appear to
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have an openness, which supports and rewards thoughtful and innovative teachingpractices.
Student feedback is used by curriculum committees to shape course and programofferings. Programs appear to have effective mentoring or advising systems that pairfaculty with students. Graduate students meet with advisors weekly, and distance learnershave meetings via the phone. The organization seems to have created an appropriatelearning environment.
Distance learners are supported via the internet, telephone, and a closed-circuitvideoconferencing system. The institutional culture appears to promote collaborationwithin program faculty and appropriate support for students that spans the state-widecampus. Students appear to have appropriate access to services, and feel a part of theprogram with access to resources, mentoring, and other services regardless of theirphysical location. Adequate support personnel and accessibility of support appearsufficient for programs using distance education features.
The organization’s learning resources support student learning and effective teaching.Student access to on-line resources from remote locations ensures access to educationalmaterials and support services. The IT Department and the library evaluate learningresources used to enhance learning. The ability of these service units to meet the currentstudent need and respond to increasing student demand appears to be sufficient, and theinstitution appears to provide effective staffing and support for its learning resources.
Some programs have extensive offsite clinical experiences which are required oravailable to students, and site visits are utilized to verify the quality of clinicaleducational experiences. These program evaluations were found to adequately measureclinical experiences.
The institution offers a fully operational Ombudsperson program, and accessible studentcounseling and advising programs, above the normal student support programs. Theprograms seem to provide appropriate student support for an effective learningenvironment.
2. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components needorganizational attention
UNMC is encouraged to consider the assessment of students and their achievements uponenrollment (all students are assessed as a condition of admission), during theireducational experience, and following completion of their certification or degree.
UNMC is encouraged to develop assessment of educational programs and services on anongoing basis to assist with decisions regarding enhancement and continuation of theseprograms.
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3. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components requireCommission follow-up.
UNMC is encouraged to consider more broadly its academic goals and agenda. Theinstitution is encouraged to consider how to assess students and their achievements uponenrollment, during their educational experience, and following completion of theircertification or degree. The assessment process should evaluate more fully the totalinfrastructure that supports the educational enterprise in its entirety, with the outcomes ofthe enterprise resulting in continuous quality improvement. Component parts of acomprehensive approach are being utilized by the University and additional componentswill strengthen the assessment process for the University.UNMC has an extensive assessment process which provides data for the PlanningInformation and Quality Indicators Report. The assessment measures have metrics whichare compared to national or peer standards, when available. How some individualprograms or initiatives are evaluated is unclear. For example, outcomes of diversityrecruitment and retention efforts were reported, while assessment of the effectiveness ofthe several programs in place to enhance service to underserved populations by facultyand students was unclear. Assessment of educational programs and services on anongoing basis would assist with decisions regarding enhancement and continuation ofthese programs.
Recommend a progress report on Assessment of Student Learning, and Assessment ofPrograms and Services. Recommended due date: July 1, 2009
4. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components are not met andrequire Commission follow-up. (Sanction or adverse action may bewarranted.)None noted
Recommendation of the TeamCriterion is met; A Progress Report on Assessment of Student Learning, and onAssessment of Programs and Services. Due July 1, 2009..
CRITERION FOUR: ACQUISITION, DISCOVERY, AND APPLICATION OFKNOWLEDGE.The organization promotes a life of learning for its faculty, administration, staff, and studentsby fostering and supporting inquiry, creativity, practice, and social responsibility in waysconsistent with its mission.
1. Evidence that Core Components are met
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The UNMC Self Study Report and supporting documents, and discussions with faculty,staff and students, affirm that the institution fosters and supports the processes of inquiry,creativity, practice and social responsibility in a manner consistent with the mission ofthe institution.
The University of Nebraska Medical Center values and encourages a life of learningthrough the students’ demonstration of core knowledge and the verification of their studyand practice skills. Electronic access to information and guidance in the self-learningprocess encourage the students’ commitment to lifelong learning. A dedication toexcellence in teaching and learning is acknowledged through faculty and student awardsand other forms of recognition. The University’s efforts seem appropriate and supportiveof a learning environment in the institution.
Research is considered vital to the mission of UNMC and the desire to foster a lifetime oflearning and inquiry by its students, faculty and staff. The Colleges have utilized some oftheir allocated FTE’s and have hired dedicated faculty members whose primaryresponsibility is conducting research. Approximately 70 percent of all faculty membersare involved in a program of research. The University’s research efforts have beensuccessful as evidenced by the growth in research funding in the past decade with anannual rate of 12.7 percent, which surpasses the federal R&D funding to all United Statesinstitutions.
UNMC’s educational programs substantiate that the acquisition of knowledge and skills,and the exercise of intellectual inquiry are embedded in the programs. This intellectualinquiry is demonstrated by frequent written and course examinations, demonstrations ofpractice and research skills, student evaluations before graduation, and yearly progressevaluations through student discussions and portfolios. These activities of intellectualinquiry are an integral part of the educational programs and are a means to gainknowledge, reasoning, skills, and professionalism consistent with graduate education.
UNMC’s educational programs demonstrate that the institution assesses the usefulness ofits curricula through a variety of approaches, including student course evaluations,student focus groups, and surveys of graduates, alumni and employers. The response rateof alumni and employer surveys varies among programs, and improvements in theassessment process are needed for some areas. The curricula are timely, relevant, anduseful to students completing programs and entering professional fields.
UNMC’s course curricula and programs outline clearly show support for the responsibleacquisition, discovery and application of knowledge through an emphasis on integrity inclinical practice in all of the healthcare disciplines. The institution requires graduate andpostdoctoral students to complete a course in research ethics, and in research andhealthcare practice compliance. Programs are present in several areas, including patientprivacy, human and animal research, grants and contracts, and patient billing. Theinstitution’s leadership and resources support inquiry, balanced with social responsibility,as foundational to UNMC’s commitment to fostering a lifetime of learning for itsstudents, faculty and staff.
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2. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components need organizationalattentionNone noted
3. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components require Commissionfollow-up.None noted
4. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components are not met andrequire Commission follow-up. (Sanction or adverse action may bewarranted.)None noted
Recommendation of the TeamCriterion is met; no Commission follow-up recommended.
CRITERION FIVE: ENGAGEMENT AND SERVICE.As called for by its mission, the organization identifies its constituencies and serves themin ways both value.
1. Evidence that Core Components are met
The University of Nebraska Medical Center is engaged and immersed in the community,community organizations and the statewide network. The Chancellor and officials travelthe state to initiate and maintain collaboration among agencies and organizations thatprovide opportunities for the institution, including the Rural Health Education Networkand Bioterrorism Preparedness. These collaborative efforts assist the leaders to regularlyanalyze the needs of the constituencies they serve, and plan programs, facilities, andpersonnel to meet the changing requirements of the constituencies.
UNMC values community service as part of the mission, and affirmation of thiscommitment is included in the mission statement. The strategic plan deals directly withmeeting manpower shortage around the state, addressing diversity issues, trainingminorities, and sponsoring summer research opportunities. The colleges promoteprograms in the community which include providing consumer health informationservices at the McGoogan Library of Medicine, numerous outreach programs acrosscolleges and schools, and through the media. The Public Affairs Office holds newsconferences to inform the community about breakthroughs in research, and daily news
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bulletins are distributed and posted to the website. These UNMC services show theexceptional capacity of engagement with all identified constituencies and communities.UNMC has the commitment and is responsive to its constituents and the community. Thecolleges have formalized arrangements with numerous institutions in the community andthroughout the state which provide education and clinical opportunities for students. TheNebraska Medical Center Community Partnership, the University Medical AssociatesCommunity Partnership, the North Omaha Community Care Council, and the SouthOmaha Community Care Council represent UNMC’s efforts to improve the health andwell-being of Nebraskans and especially the underserved. Educational partnershiparrangements include Creighton Saint Joseph Regional Health Care System in Omaha, St.Francis Hospital in Grand Island, Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Regional WestHospital in Scottsbluff, Great Plains Hospital in North Platte, and Faith Regional Hospitalin Norfolk provides graduate medical education and rural residency programs. UNMChas effectively forged a variety of key partnerships, which has benefited those affiliatedwith UNMC and the communities it serves.
UNMC has demonstrated its responsiveness to the community by addressing the needs ofconstituents. The institution offers a semiannual Mini-Medical School to individualsinterested in advances in health, research, and patient care. UNMC has receivedrecognition for community service with the AAMC Outstanding Community ServiceAward in 2003, and two of the community clinics received the Secretary of Health andHuman Services Award sponsored by Health Resources Service Administration forInnovations in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. Community responsiveness isevident by the strong philanthropic support for the Foundation, and major contributionsto build the three clinical and two research buildings and the educational Sorrell Center,which are planned or have been completed over the past decade. UNMC strives to fulfillits world-class aspirations, and this internal and external validation indicates the value oftheir engagement and service to constituents and communities.
2. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components need organizationalattentionNone noted
3. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components require Commissionfollow-up.None noted
4. Evidence that one or more specified Core Components are not met andrequire Commission follow-up. (Sanction or adverse action may bewarranted.)None noted
Recommendation of the Team
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Criterion is met; no Commission follow-up recommended
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Distance Learning: UNMC Request for a Change in NCA-HLC Status
Background:
UNMC has requested a status change in its relationship with the NCA-HLC. T h einstitution is seeking authorization to offer distance education programs without thenecessity to seek NCA-HLC approval prior to the start of each new individual program.Review of this request has been conducted in conjunction with the comprehensive sitevisit of UNMC. Materials in support of the request were included as part of the overallSelf-Study Report prepared for the site visit, documentation was made available to teammembers in the Resource Room, discussions occurred with appropriate UNMCpersonnel, and an assessment was considered by the team on the impact of the proposedstatus change.
UNMC sought individual approval in the past for each of its distance educationprograms. The strategic planning process envisions a more comprehensive approach andthe offering of educational programs to a wider audience as one way to meet the need formore health professionals for the State of Nebraska. UNMC is a public institution witha stated mission to improve the health of its citizenry by offering educational programs,improving the quality of medical services, and by providing outreach services tounderserved populations. The institution is located in the eastern-most section of thestate with 43 of the 93 rural counties designed as Medically Underserved Areas andidentified workforce shortages in medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, and alliedhealth professions. An institutional commitment to address these shortages is included inUNMC’s overall strategic plan and in the planning initiatives of individual colleges.Currently, the percent of Nebraska practitioners who are UNMC graduates includes thefollowing: physicians (51%), pharmacists (57%), dental professionals (58%), and alliedhealth professional (51%). This record of achievements supports UNMC’s contributionin fulfilling the institution’s mission. The institution recognizes that unmet needs withinthe state will require different approaches and innovative methods to educate more healthprofessionals in the future.
The requested change is to allow UNMC to offer distance education programs in all of itscurrent health science degree programs with the exception of the M.D., D.D.S, Pharm.D.degrees, and the MS and PhD degrees offered by the Graduate College. At present, theinstitution has NCA approval to offer two degree-granting programs via distanceeducation. These experiences have provided UNMC with the foundation to effectivelystructure and deliver programs via distance education. Outcomes data of existingprogramming is reflective of their success in reaching out to rural and underserved areaswithin the state. Immediate plans are to offer distance education opportunities for onecertificate program, three bachelor degrees in allied health, two master level programs,and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing. In addition, UNMC is seeking NCA-HLCrecognition and acceptance of degree completion programs offered via distance educationdelivered through the Center for Continuing Education. These programs include twobachelor programs, two master level allied health programs, and the Doctor of PhysicalTherapy program.
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UNMC’s strategic planning process identified distance education as an effective way tocommunicate with rural areas and provide educational opportunities directed towardsindividuals currently employed and/or situated in rural areas and unable to relocate forcareer development and training. The President of the University of Nebraska andChancellor of UNMC support this initiative and the benefits provided to Nebraskans.
Institutional Preparedness:
Institutional requirements for offering effective distance education programs have beendeveloped from past and present endeavors. UNMC offered 800 on-line courses, 500 ofwhich were active at any one time in the 2005-2006 academic year. The institution isfully cognizant that such programmatic offering are faculty intensive and that instructorsneed education on effective use of technology. Participating students must be integratedinto the UNMC educational system, and academic support services made available,which places additional demands on the library, the IT staff, faculty development, testing,evaluation/assessment, student services, and financial aid.
The College of Nursing is the most aggressive college utilizing distance education witheducational programs at four different campuses and a history of use dating back to 1975.The college has been awarded over 9 million federal dollars in training and educationgrants to implement distance education programs over the past 12 years. The nursingprogram recently underwent a site visit by its specialized accreditation agency and givenfull accreditation approval. This accreditation approval included the distance educationofferings and indicated that the distance education programs offered by the College ofNursing meet the same criteria and standards as the campus-based programs.
The UNMC commitment to distance education is evident in the strategic planningprocess. The institution has committed to becoming a comprehensive state resource andrecognizes the necessity to take a leading role in addressing identified health professionshortages, particularly in the western rural areas of the state. The strategic planningprocess identified expanded program offerings via distance education as the best optionto create an environment to accommodate students from these areas. The administrationhas committed additional financial and human resources for the units whose workloadand/or demand will increase as a result of these additional distance education courses.
Institutional Challenges:
The programs planning to extensively use distance education are in allied healthprofessions and have both didactic and clinical components. This educational modelcreates new curricular challenges for providing all required educational componentsthrough distance education. The College of Nursing has effectively contended with manyof the challenges that new programs will face in delivering distance education programs.Some of the more important issues include the following:
• Compliance with specialized accreditation agency requirements that may ormay not be supportive of distance education program offerings.
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• Curricular changes for students in distance education programs may bedifferent from campus-based students in the same program, e.g. coursestructure, different methods of accounting for contact hours, etc.
• Provision for the required clinical components of the curriculum in areaswhere distance education programs only provide the didactic component.
• Creation of a cadre of faculty with expertise and experience in dealing withstudents in a distance education environment.
• Use of faculty development programs to educate faculty to effectively utilizeinstructional techniques for on-line instruction and student support.
• Adequately educating the students participating in distance educationprograms to access educational resources available at UNMC, e.g. searchcapabilities for library resources, contacting faculty, informing students ofand providing access to academic support services, etc.
• Validating the effectiveness of distance education programs compared to thecampus-based programs in the same disciplines.
Infrastructure:
The technological backbone to support distance educational programs already exists atUNMC. The proposed programs in allied health professions will require an expansion ofthe same services currently available for the College of Nursing.
The IT Department, as an institutional wide resource, has the capacity to supportexpansion of the allied health programs. The director of the unit participates as a memberof the Chancellor’s Council and has been directly involved in all planning initiatives.The department offers extensive support in educating faculty regarding technology forinstructional purposes, computer literacy, and understanding software programs. Auniversity-wide committee composed of representatives of the various colleges helpssteer the priorities for faculty development initiatives.
UNMC has invested significant resources in technology equipment and supportpersonnel, and have the ability to accommodate present and future growth.Administration has identified a number of programs which have the potential to expandusing distance learning modalities. These programs are anticipated to have smallenrollments, and the impact on the organization is expected to be minimal. UNMCadministration envisions an ability to respond to changing expectations regarding offeringdistance education programs in contrast to seeking individual NCA-HLC approval foreach program.
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Conclusion:
The Site Team recommends that UNMC be granted authorization to offer degreeprograms and degree completion programs via distance education. The institution hasadequately demonstrated extensive experience in delivering distance education programsat various sites, developed infrastructure to support future expansion, committedresources to support the proposed changes, implemented planning processes to evaluateeffectiveness, and educated personnel and faculty to successfully implement theprograms. The distance education programs are consistent with the mission of UNMCand meet an institutional accountability to address defined statewide concerns for thepublic health of the citizens of Nebraska.
V. STATEMENT OF AFFILIATION STATUS
A. Affiliation Status
No change
B. Nature of Organization
1. Legal status
No change
2. Degrees awarded
No change
C. Conditions of Affiliation
1. Stipulation on affiliation status
No change
2. Approval of degree sites
No change
3. Approval of distance education degrees
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No prior Commission approval required.
The Site Team recommends that UNMC be granted authorization to offer degreeprograms and degree completion programs via distance education.
Rationale: The institution has adequately demonstrated extensive experience indelivering distance education programs at various sites, developed infrastructure tosupport future expansion, committed resources to support the proposed changes,implemented planning processes to evaluate effectiveness, and educated personneland faculty to successfully implement the programs.
4. Reports required
Progress Report
A Progress Report on Assessment of Student Learning, and on Assessment of Programs and Services. Due July 1, 2009.
Rational:UNMC is encouraged to consider more broadly how to assess students and theirachievements upon enrollment, during their educational experience, and followingcompletion of their certification or degree. The assessment process shouldevaluate more fully the total infrastructure that supports the educational enterprisein its entirety, with the outcomes of the enterprise resulting in continuous qualityimprovement.
UNMC is encouraged to develop an appropriate mechanism to provideassessment of educational programs and services on an ongoing basis, whichwould assist with decisions about enhancement and continuation of theseprograms.
Expectations:The Progress Report submitted by UNMC would indicate an expandedassessment process for both student achievement, and for programmaticevaluations. The report would indicate a mechanism utilizing a feed-back loop toeffectively implement continuous quality improvement.
Monitoring Report
None
Contingency Report
None
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5. Other visits scheduled
None
6. Organization change request
None
D. Commission Sanction or Adverse Action
None
E. Summary of Commission Review
Timing for next comprehensive visit: academic year – 2016-2017
Rationale for recommendation:
The University of Nebraska Medical Center has appropriate organizational status,commitment to peer review, maintains compliance with Federal requirements, and fulfillsthe five Higher Learning Commission requirements.
ADVANCEMENT SECTION
REPORT OF A COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION VISIT
TO
University of Nebraska Medical CenterOmaha, Nebraska
January 8-10, 2007
FOR
The Higher Learning CommissionA Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
EVALUATION TEAM
Lynn L. Walker (Team Chair) Assistant to Academic Dean, Registrar, Education Consortium LiaisonDirector, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, Kansas City, MO 64106
Donna McCarty Beckett, Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53792
Mark L. Cummings, Associate Dean, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824
Victoria M. Fleming, Director of Education and Faculty Development in the Department of Medicine,Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611
William R. Hendee, Distinguished Professor, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226
Steven L. Ludwig, Vice President for Administrative Affairs, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN56301
Lisa A. Wallace, Interim Director, Physician Assistant Program, Midwestern University, Downers Grove,IL 60515
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Contents
I. Overall Observations about the Organization................................................3
II. Consultations of the Team ...........................................................................4
A. Facilities........................................................................................4B. Sharing of Assessment of Approaches..........................................5C. Scholarship of Teaching................................................................5
III. Recognition of Significant Accomplishments, Progress, and/or Practices.....5
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I. OVERALL OBSERVATIONS ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
The University of Nebraska Medical Center exemplifies a very vibrant educational,research, and patient care organization. New and innovative ideas are being practiced,and leading edge technologies are utilized and being developed. UNMC provides adynamic learning environment for medical, dental, nursing, pharmacy, public health, andallied health students, residents, fellows, and graduate students.
The University of Nebraska Medical Center employees more than 800 full-time faculty,175 part-time faculty, and 3,200 staff. Approximately 1,300 practicing professionalsvolunteer as preceptors for clinical training programs throughout the state and Midwest.An additional 4,000 individuals are employed at The Nebraska Medical Center.
The campus facilities are varied, extensive, and relatively new. Many have been built inthe last 25 years and new facilities are under construction. All older facilities have beenrenovated to modern standards.
The University of Nebraska Medical Center has extensive research funding support fromthe National Institutes of Health and other sources. The rapidly expanding researchefforts involve investigations in cancer, stem cell and transplantation biology,cardiovascular disease, genetics, neurosciences, biomedical technology, bioterrorismpreparedness, and nanomedicine. Extramural research funding approaches $80 millionannually.
The University of Nebraska Medical Center has programmatic accreditation of thenumerous educational programs, and has achieved and maintained accreditation byrecognized national standard-setting organizations such as the LCME, ANCC, ACGME,ACCME, CEPH, and ADA.
University of Nebraska Medical Center exhibits a forward-thinking orientation, studentand faculty-focused learning, connectedness to its communities, and distinctiveness as aneducational, research, and patient service institution.
II. CONSULTATIONS OF THE TEAM
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Facilities
The UNMC campus is located in an area that has been completely developed over the last150 years, originally being a transition area between an industrial area adjacent to a railline and waterway and the nearby residential neighborhood. The industrial remnantshave fallen to disuse or been redeveloped as light commercial, and the rail line has beenreclaimed for parking lots and building sites. The creek has been confined to pipes,except at flood times. The residential neighborhood now has historic designation.
UNMC’s facilities planning and execution in the last several years appears as anexemplary exercise. It capitalizes on the natural boundaries of the adjacent historicallydesignated housing district with small scale structures aimed at student service orresidence and maximizes the use of the central campus allowing for expansion on theperimeter.
The organization of campus into zones of research, clinical facilities and instruction at itscore with administrative facilities more remote is an appropriate organizational theme.The more detailed elements of the plan pay attention to the movement of vehicular trafficof various types and access of pedestrians, including the substantial number of patientsand families that visit the center daily.
The pending agreement with the local power district to acquire their “lay down” serviceyard and the acquisition or optioning over time of properties along both sides of theSaddle Creek thoroughfare provide for long-term expansion of UNMC. This isenhanced by the plan to move Saddle Creek Road to the west edge of the area andmanaging the flow of storm water by creating ponds on campus.
The exercise of all the options on the property by UNMC would be costly; since there isno immediate need for some of the property by UNMC and in effect would take valuableresources away from more immediate needs. The following two strategies could allowUNMC to influence development of the property and retain access to it in the future,should the need arise:
1. The options could be sold with the condition of UNMC approval of the proposeddevelopment plan for the property and future improvements.
2. UNMC, together with the City of Omaha, could work to redevelop the entire area notowned by the University as a Planned Unit Development (PUD), a tool commonlyavailable in zoning ordinances. The plan could designate such things as types of use,building size, height or materials, signage, street access, landscaping, internal pedestrianand vehicle circulation. This strategy could unify the site and give more control ratherthan relying on simple zoning to protect the Medical Center from incompatibledevelopment. In both cases, UNMC would retain the right of first refusal on sale of thereal estate in the future.
These plans are contingent on the perceived value of the site for redevelopment followingthe relocation of Saddle Creek Road. The activity generated by the Medical Center,coupled with reasonable access to Dodge Street and the on going Mid-Town project,should make this a very attractive location that would allow UNMC the control it wouldlike to exercise while still remaining a viable development with private sector capital.
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Sharing of Assessment Approaches
Each college is engaged in a variety of program assessments. Programs provide standardevaluation measures with various criteria. There is some evidence of more innovativemethods currently in use, i.e., the Graduate School’s use of portfolios. As there is littleevidence to demonstrate collaborative sharing of assessment techniques, it might behoovethe institution to establish an institutional assessment group that would facilitatecommunication among programs and colleges. This mechanism for sharing and learningfrom each other would become part of the institutional landscape, and further serve tomove the institution toward a more comprehensive and consistent measure of overallinstitutional outcomes.
Scholarship of Teaching
The variety of effective teaching modalities – in class, via distance learning, and on-line –was observed in the educational environment. “Scholarship of Teaching” was identifiedas a viable research area for teaching-focused faculty. The institution may wish to exploreaddressing such issues within faculty development programs. Evaluating performance ofstudents who learn in different modalities is an example of a potentially fruitful projectfor the teaching scholars and faculty development programs.
III. RECOGNITION OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOMPLISHMENTS, PROGRESS, AND/ORPRACTICES
The University of Nebraska Medical Center is to be commended for developing,achieving excellence, and maintaining quality education, research, and patient care. Thepresent administration has effectively developed the Medical Center to offer qualityprimary, specialty, and emergency health care throughout the state and regionalcommunities. The University of Nebraska Medical Center is a quality institution with areputation for excellence and a commitment to building a World-Renowned HealthScience Center.
Team Recommendations for theSTATEMENT OF AFFILIATION STATUS
INSTITUTION and STATE: University of Nebraska Medical Center, NE
TYPE OF REVIEW (from ESS): Continued Accreditation
DESCRIPTION OF REVIEW: Review will include the institution's request for general approval of onlinedelivery.
DATES OF REVIEW: 1/8/07 - 1/10/07
Nature of Organization
LEGAL STATUS: Public
TEAM RECOMMENDATION: no change
DEGREES AWARDED: B, M, D, 1st Prof
TEAM RECOMMENDATION: no change
Conditions of Affiliation
STIPULATIONS ON AFFILIATION STATUS: Out of state offerings are limited to the PhysicianAssistant Program at Fort Sam Houston in Texas.
TEAM RECOMMENDATION: no change
APPROVAL OF NEW DEGREE SITES: No prior Commission approval required for additionalnursing programs within the state.
TEAM RECOMMENDATION: no change
APPROVAL OF DISTANCE EDUCATION DEGREES: Prior Commission approval required fordistance education programs other than the BS in Medical Technology and the BS in RadiationScience Technology.
TEAM RECOMMENDATION: No prior Commission required.
REPORTS REQUIRED: None
TEAM RECOMMENDATION: Progress report due 7/1/09 on assessment of student learningand on effectiveness of programs and services
OTHER VISITS REQUIRED: None
TEAM RECOMMENDATION: none
Summary of Commission Review
Team Recommendations for theSTATEMENT OF AFFILIATION STATUS
YEAR OF LAST COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION: 1996 - 1997
YEAR OF NEXT COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION: 2006 - 2007
TEAM RECOMMENDATION: 2016-17
ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILE
INSTITUTION and STATE: University of Nebraska Medical Center, NE
TYPE OF REVIEW:
Educational Programs
Program Distribution Recommended Change(+ or -)
Programs leading to UndergraduateAssociate 0Bachelors 5
Programs leading to GraduateMasters 5Specialist 0First Professional 3Doctoral 2
Off-Campus Activities
In-State: Present Activity: Recommended Change:(+ or -)
Campuses: Kearney (University of Nebraskaat Kearney) ; Lincoln(University of Nebraska -Lincoln) ; Scottsbluff (WesternNebraska Division)
Sites: NoneCourse Locations: None
Out-of-State: Present Wording: Recommended Change:(+ or -)
Campuses: NoneSites: NoneCourse Locations: None
Out-of-USA: Present Wording: Recommended Change:(+ or -)
Campuses: NoneSites: NoneCourse Locations: None
Distance Education Certificate and Degree Offerings:
Present Offerings:
B.S. in Medical Technology offered via Internet; B.S. in Nursing offered via Internet; B.S. in RadiationScience Technology offered via Internet; Masters in Perfusion Science offered via Internet
