The alignment process ensures that technical education programs across Utah are consistent, workforce-driven, and policy-compliant. It is a multi-step, collaborative approach involving faculty, institutional leaders, industry representatives, and the Utah System of Higher Education. This page outlines the process from program development to final Board approval, providing transparency into how programs are reviewed, approved, and maintained to meet local and statewide priorities.

• The alignment process is collaborative and structured to ensure that programs meet workforce demands while remaining consistent with policy and statute. It begins with faculty committees from participating institutions, who work together, alongside industry advisory committees, to develop or revise programs based on current occupational needs.
• Once a proposal is drafted, Chief Instructional Officers review and vote on program proposals, representing institutional and stakeholder interests. Their review helps ensure the program is viable, regionally responsive, and aligned with educational goals.
• The Commissioner’s Office then evaluates the proposal through the USHE Review Committee. This includes a review by the Chief Economist to confirm alignment with broad occupational areas requiring more than a high school diploma but less than a degree, and a compliance review to verify that the proposal meets all statutory and policy requirements.
• The final step is the Utah Board of Higher Education review, which determines whether to approve, reject, or request additional information regarding the proposed alignment or program changes.