Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) System

The University of Nova Gorica (UNG) places the pursuit of excellence at the core of its mission. To ensure this excellence in education, research, and organizational management, the university has established a robust Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) system. This system is designed not merely to meet regulatory requirements, but to cultivate a proactive culture of quality that involves all members of the academic community.

The Philosophy of Quality

Quality at the University of Nova Gorica is defined as a continuous, cyclical process of monitoring, evaluation, and enhancement. The IQA system is built upon the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG). By aligning with these international benchmarks, UNG ensures that its degrees are recognized globally and that its graduates possess the competencies required in a modern, competitive labor market.

Key Components of the IQA System

The universitys quality framework operates through several interconnected layers:

• Policy and Strategy: The Rector and the Senate set the strategic direction for quality, ensuring that all academic and administrative activities align with the universitys development plan.
• Monitoring and Assessment: Regular feedback loops are implemented, involving surveys among students, alumni, and employers. These data points provide critical insights into the effectiveness of study programs and support services.
• Annual Self-Evaluation: Each organizational unit within the university conducts an annual self-evaluation. This reflective process allows departments to identify their strengths and address areas that require improvement.
• External Validation: The internal findings are complemented by periodic external audits and international accreditation processes, providing an objective view of the universitys institutional health.

Student Participation in Quality Assurance

Students are considered the most vital stakeholders in the IQA process. Their feedback is systematically collected through end-of-semester course evaluations. The university management treats this feedback with the utmost seriousness, as it acts as an early warning system for curriculum adjustment and pedagogical improvement. Furthermore, student representatives serve on various university boards and committees, ensuring that the "student voice" is represented in policy-making and administrative decisions.

Improving Study Programs

The IQA system is highly focused on the continuous development of study programs. When an academic program undergoes review, the IQA team analyzes metrics such as completion rates, student satisfaction, and the career paths of alumni. If a program is found to be lagging in industry relevance or pedagogical effectiveness, the faculty is tasked with a redesign process, which is then reviewed by the Senate to ensure it meets the highest academic standards.

Commitment to Transparency

Transparency is a cornerstone of the University of Nova Gorica. The university publishes its quality reports and the results of its self-evaluations to ensure that stakeholdersincluding current students, prospective candidates, and the publicare informed about the university's performance. By sharing this information, UNG fosters trust and maintains accountability, which are essential elements of an effective higher education institution.

The Path Forward

Quality assurance at UNG is not a static list of checklists; it is a dynamic evolution. As the landscape of higher education changesdue to digitalization, new research methodologies, and evolving societal needsthe universitys IQA system adapts. Through a combination of rigorous data analysis, open dialogue among staff and students, and a firm commitment to international best practices, the University of Nova Gorica continues to secure its position as a center of academic excellence.