NewU Approves Ethical Principles, Academic Programs
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe board of trustees for Purdue NewU has approved a Statement of Ethical Principles and Pledge to Students, as well as the academic programs previously authorized by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education. The approvals are the latest step following the creation of NewU, which is the result of Purdue University’s acquisition of Kaplan University in April.
Purdue says the Statement of Ethical Principles and Pledge to Students is a code by which faculty, administrators, staff and support team members must conduct themselves. It also applies to all service partners, vendors, collaborators and others associated with the online university.
“KU’s existing protocols are exemplary and were verified by the Higher Learning Commission in 2016,” said Mike Berghoff, chair of the NewU and Purdue University boards of trustees. "As we move forward to launch NewU, and as part of our overall commitment to the highest standards of quality and integrity, we want to affirm and establish strong and clear codes of conduct for NewU’s administration, faculty and staff as well as our service partners and associates."
The statement says NewU will commit to:
- Responsible, transparent and accurate marketing.
- No incentive compensation for applications, enrollments or other related counts.
- Admissions based on published requirements.
- Clear and accurate information on program cost.
- Access to financial counseling.
- Regular publication of performance metrics.
- Transfer credit and licensure disclosures.
- Qualified faculty who are evaluated and participate in professional development at least annually.
- Adequate student support including 24/7 desk help.
- Comprehensive career services and employment preparation.
Additionally, the NewU board approved a code for students, which includes a student bill of rights, code of conduct, and codes related to violence prevention, procedures, and responsible use of technology. NewU will also continue what is referred to as the "Kaplan Commitment," whereby students have a three-week introductory period to begin classes and opt out at any time with no financial obligation except for their application fee.
In August, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education authorized NewU’s 129 academic programs ranging from certificates to doctoral degrees. Those programs were also approved by the NewU board.
The creation of NewU has already been approved by the CHE and the U.S. Department of Education. NewU says it expects a ruling from the Higher Learning Commission in February.