Program Development Timeline The typical development timeline for a short-term, faculty-led program is 12 – 15 months from the time the program proposal is submitted for approval until the group departs. This allows adequate time to develop the program concept, gain approvals, put logistics in place, recruit students, vet applications, and prepare the group for departure. A general timeline for program development follows. 15 to 12 Months Prior to Group Departure ● Consult with department chair and college dean to gain support for the program concept. ● Review IU Education Abroad Proposal Guidelines. ● Begin to work on the Program Proposal for approval by department/college. ● Proposal reviewed and approved by department/college. ● Receive notification of program approval by department/college. 12 to 10 Months Prior to Group Departure ● Develop program framework, itinerary and objectives. ● If needed, make advance visit to proposed program location. ● Consult with logistics providers regarding available services and costs. ● Further develop the academic component of the program, including course number, course description, etc. 9 to 7 Months Prior to Group Departure ● Submit Program Proposal with initial draft syllabus. ● Proposal reviewed and approved by the IU Overseas Study Advisory Council. ● Receive notification of program approval from IU Overseas Study Advisory Council. ● Finalize program itinerary. ● Determine final program costs and set program fee. ● Establish payment and withdrawal policies. ● Work with logistics providers to finalize contract details. ● Finalize internal application procedures and deadlines. ● Develop marketing materials for the program (flyers, brochures, web text). 6 to 3 Months Prior to Group Departure ● Promote the program and recruit students. ● Collect applications. Review applications, verify student eligibility, and confirm acceptances. ● Begin accepting program deposits from students. ● Set pre-departure class meeting schedule and notify participants. ● Collect program fees from students according to payment deadlines. ● Make payments to logistics providers according to payment deadlines. 2 to 1 Months Prior to Group Departure • Submit Participant Data Sheet and Enroll Participants in Group Health Insurance Plan. • Complete IU Education Abroad Health, Security & Safety Plan and submit to department head and campus coordinator, as appropriate. Zero Months Prior to Group Departure • Depart and return. • Encourage students to complete program evaluation; collect student feedback • Submit post-program report providing details on program outcomes, incidents abroad, etc.
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