Administrative Unit Reporting

The administrative unit assessment process focuses on the University of South Alabama's activities related to regular planning, goal setting, and evaluation of the extent to which it is accomplishing its mission.

As its mission, USA strives to make a difference in the lives of those it serves through promoting discovery, health, and learning. To achieve that mission, administrative units are responsible for identifying desired outcomes related to the University's Strategic Plan and analyzing the efficacy of steps taken to achieve those goals. This process allows the University to evaluate the effectiveness of its ability to marshal its budget and other resources in support of its mission and identified goals.

Assessment Handbook

The assessment handbook is a comprehensive guide to the assessment process at the University of South Alabama. It provides detailed information and guidance on best practices for measuring and improving student learning outcomes, as well as tools and templates for the components of an assessment report, data collection, and analysis. The handbook is designed to support faculty, staff, and administrators in their efforts to ensure the quality and effectiveness of our academic programs, administrative units, and student support services.

Assessment Handbook

Process

At USA, the institutional assessment process is overseen by the Office of Institutional Effectiveness (OIE). 

Annually, administrative units are expected to document how assessment data are being used to seek improvement within their department. Each unit articulates two to three performance indicators or objectives, reports on those indicators or objectives annually, and completes a brief narrative on activities and achievements that advance relevant strategic plan priorities. These annual assessment reports are submitted electronically by each unit using Watermark Planning & Self-Study software.

If you have questions or would like assistance, please email assessment@southalabama.edu.

Dates & Deadlines

The assessment schedule will differ depending on the reporting period for the administrative unit. According to classification, administrative units will report either on a Fiscal Year (FY) or the Academic Year (AY). The Fiscal Year at the University of South Alabama operates from October 1st to September 30th. The Academic Year at the University of South Alabama comprises three teaching periods: Fall Term, Spring Term, and Summer Term.

2022-2023 Timeline

	November Third Friday: Assessment Plans due for AY and FY reporting units in Watermark Planning & Self-Study.
	January Third Friday: Feedback has been given to AY and FY reporting units on assessment plans.

2023-2024 Timeline

	September Third Friday: Reports due for AY reporting units
	October Third Friday: Feedback has been given to AY reporting units
	November Third Friday: Reports due for FY reporting units
	January Third Friday: Feedback provided to FY reporting units
	March As part of the transparency measures, the assessment reports will be published for public access, providing aggregated data and findings to ensure openness and accountability.
	June Third Friday: Assessment Plans Due

Resources

Planning & Self-Study Guide for Non-Academic Units

Assessment Instructions

Identifying Outcomes Worksheet

 

Assessment Rubric

Assessment Language Glossary

Checklist for Assessment Reporting

Sample Reports

Alumni, Development, and Special Events

Governmental Relations