Program Development and Internal Approval:

• Curriculum Design: Develop the certificate program’s curriculum, ensuring it meets industry standards and educational objectives (Refer to Curriculum Revision Form - Research and Development section).
• Internal Review: Submit the program proposal to the curriculum subcommittee and obtain necessary approvals.

Financial Aid Eligibility Assessment:

• Program Length and Credit Requirements: Ensure the program meets the minimum length and credit hour requirements:
  • Short-Term Certificates (300-599 clock hours):
    1. Minimum of 10 weeks in length
    2. Academic Dean submits paperwork for approval from the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE)
    3. CAO or HLC ALO submits paperwork for approval from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
    4. Academic Dean to research gainful employment. Evidence can be obtained by searching https://www.onetonline.org/, https://www.bls.gov/, or advisory committee meeting minutes.
    5. Evidence of at least 70% program completion and 70% job placement rates obtain by auditors’ attestation.
  • Short-Term or One-Year Certificates (600 or more clock hours):
    1. Minimum of 10 weeks in length
    2. Academic Dean submits paperwork for approval from the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE)
    3. CAO or HLC ALO submits paperwork for approval from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
    4. Academic Dean to research gainful employment. Evidence can be obtained by searching https://www.onetonline.org/, https://www.bls.gov/, or advisory committee meeting minutes.

Documentation and Submission:

• Prepare Documentation: Complete the “New Certificate Program Request for Federal Financial Aid” form, and gather state and HLC approval documents.
• Submission to Financial Aid Office: Submit the compiled documentation to Zane State College’s Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA).