Instructor Qualifications for Transferable Courses

The following represents BCCAT's position on instructor qualifications within the BC Transfer System:

1. BC Transfer System Instructor Qualification Standards

1. Based on long-standing precedents in the BC Transfer System, BCCAT expects that instructors who teach academic, degree-level transfer courses will usually possess, at a minimum, a master's degree or equivalent in the discipline or in a closely related area.
   
   
2. Instructors teaching in other transferable programs (e.g. diploma programs) will usually possess, at a minimum, credentials consistent with the normative requirements for that program in the BC Transfer System.
   
   
3. It is recognized that there may be programs in which other qualifications are equally, or more, appropriate. (Examples of alternately qualified instructors: First Nations elders, practising artists, acknowledged or renowned experts or practitioners.)
   
4. When, for legitimate reasons, it is not possible to engage faculty who meet the standards described above, institutions should provide appropriate mentoring and supervision.

2. Establishing and Monitoring Expectations

1. BCCAT expects institutions participating in the BC Transfer System to develop and/or make explicit and accessible their policies on instructor qualifications for
   
   
1. hiring of instructors in programs for which transfer credit may be negotiated, and for
   
   
2. awarding transfer credit for courses taught at other institutions.
   
   
2. It is reasonable for any receiving institution upon occasion to seek assurance as to the hiring policies or practices at a sending institution, or to request specific information about the qualifications of an instructor for an articulated course.
   
   
3. In the event that a concern arises that can not be resolved between the institutions, BCCAT can provide mediation services, if requested. Mediation entails facilitating further discussions between the institutions with the goal of achieving a mutually acceptable outcome. Although BCCAT may suggest possible solutions, it has no authority to impose a binding resolution to the issues in dispute.

For an in-depth discussion and background to this position statement, please click here (PDF)