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Catalog Management

Understanding Catalog Management in Higher Education

Catalog management is the process of organizing, updating, and publishing the official course catalog, including degree programs, policies, and academic calendars. It ensures students and faculty have access to accurate, current information.

This category outlines terminology used by registrars, curriculum committees, and academic affairs teams.

Glossary Terms
Term
Description
Academic Catalog

A comprehensive guide listing courses, degree programs, and institutional policies.

Catalog Year

The specific academic year in which a student’s degree requirements are defined.

Curriculum Update

The process of modifying course descriptions, prerequisites, or credit hours in the catalog.

Catalog Workflow

A structured review and approval process for changes to catalog content.

Version Control

A system for managing changes to catalog entries across academic years.

Online Catalog

A digital version of the academic catalog, often integrated with the institution’s website or CMS.

Evolving Digital Catalog Systems

Modern catalog systems are integrated with SIS and curriculum management tools, allowing real-time updates, advanced search, and mobile access. Workflow automation improves review speed and accuracy.