Appendix

Pages41-43
Appendix A
Criteria for Granting Waivers
The provision prohibiting the simultaneous offering of approved and unapproved
programs and program options by an institution is based on the following
principles:
1. Approval by the American Bar Association is a voluntary process under which
institutions choose to adhere to stated standards. Institutions should not readily
request to opt out of meeting those standards.
2. Permitting an institution with an approved program to offer an unapproved
program creates an inherent likelihood of confusion among the constituencies
being served by the institution with the result that the unapproved program will
likely be perceived by the public to be approved. This result not only misleads
the public but also devalues the meaning and credibility of ABA approval.
Therefore, when an institution requests a waiver of the prohibition against
offering approved and unapproved programs, the Standing Committee will
examine all of the surrounding circumstances to ascertain the justification for not
adhering to stated standards and the degree to which the public is likely to be
misled by the proposed offering.
In making this analysis, the Standing Committee will consider the following
information and material, as appropriate, and any other information and material
that may be relevant to the specific circumstances of the institution and its
request.
1. The program’s stated rationale for requesting the waiver.
2. Information on whether the program for which the institution is requesting a
waiver is located within the institution. Is this the same division in which the
paralegal program is situated? Are any of the classes sponsored by the paralegal
program? What are the organizational, budgeting, and reporting relationship
between the programs? An organization chart should be attached.
3. Information on the administration and faculty of both the approved program
and the program for which a waiver is being requested. Who are the program
directors or coordinators? Who is teaching in the program? Are any of the same
persons involved in teaching and administration of both programs? The names
and resumes of the faculty of both programs should be provided.
4. Curriculum for the approved program and the program for which a waiver is
being requested. Are any of the courses the same? Are the courses in the
41

To continue reading

Request your trial

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT