The Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) of the UP Open University recently held a two-day workshop on October 7-8, 2024, to develop a standardized FMDS Program Handbook. Led by FMDS Quality Assurance (QA) Officer, Assistant Professor Ria Valerie Cabanes, with QA Team members Mr. Larry Cruz, Ms. Dina Mae Rejano, Ms. Anne Pauline Del Rosario, and Ms. Raizza Anna Alforja.
This initiative marks a significant step toward providing a comprehensive, user-friendly, and accessible handbook for the 18 programs under FMDS. These programs include the Graduate Certificate in / Master of ASEAN Studies (GC/MAS), Master of Arts in Nursing (MAN), Diploma in / Master of Environment and Natural Resources Management (D/MENRM), Diploma in / Master of International Health (D/MIH), Diploma in / Master of Research and Development Management (D/MR&DM), Diploma in / Master of Land Valuation and Management (D/MLVM), Associate of Arts in Digital Entrepreneurship (AADE), Master of Public Management (MPM), Diploma in Land Use Planning (DLUP), Diploma in Women and Development (DWD), Diploma in / Master of Social Work (D/MSW), and the Doctor in Sustainability (DSUS).
FMDS aims to streamline program-specific information and provide a clear structure for students from the beginning of their academic journey through completion. The handbook covers the: General Information, Program Goals, Admission Process and Requirements, Mode of Instruction, Program of Study, Credit Unit, Registration, Grading System, Policies, Scholarship and Financial Assistance, Graduation, Application for Clearance, and Roles and Responsibilities of the Program Chair.
The handbook will also include a contact directory which will make it easier for students to connect with relevant Faculty and support services.
As part of FMDS’s Quality Assurance (QA) efforts, the handbook aligns with the Faculty’s commitment to high academic standards and consistent program delivery. This initiative also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4 – Quality Education.
The FMDS QA team will continue refining the handbook based on feedback and is working toward a formal implementation. This initiative not only demonstrates the Faculty’s dedication to student-centered practices but also sets a precedent for standardization that other Faculties within the university may adopt.
Written by Anne Pauline Del Rosario, Raizza Anne Alforja & Dina Mae Rejano ♦ Edited by Larry N. Cruz ♦ Crossposted from FMDS Website
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