Topic outline
Narrative Profile: Area 5 Planning Process (BS Biology)
Maintaining and enhancing quality is an integral component of the USM planning framework. Key players in this effort are the University Quality Assurance Office (UQAO), Planning and Development Office, and Human Resource and Development Office (HRMDO). They play the most important role in the development and monitoring of targets and reporting quality across all university operations. The UQAO ensures continuous improvement by upholding the highest standards of the systems and procedures throughout the institution. As part of this commitment to quality, the BS Biology Program undergoes regular accreditation by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP), Inc. This process supports the continuous enhancement of academic standards and program relevance. The PDO initiates, monitors, and evaluates the planning activities of the university. It leads the preparation of project plans and proposals and assists in packaging programs and recommendations from different offices in the University. On the other hand, HRMDO ensures that people, the university’s most valuable resource, are aligned with institutional goals. This ensures that the USM development agenda is backed by a competent, motivated, and strategically deployed workforce.
The Department of Biological Sciences planning process is designed to establish clear targets that guide progress at all levels and contribute to the overall advancement of the university. The priorities and operational goals outlined in our development plan, that is, the DBS Development Plan 2023-2028, are closely aligned with the University’s goals articulated in the USM Strategic Plan 2023-2028. We maintain a culture of planning in all aspects of its operations, including faculty advancement, research and extension agenda, student services, quality of instruction, and curriculum development that aim to cultivate essential skills for lifelong learning for students, encouraging engagement with societal and global issues, and equipping students for meaningful careers in an ever-evolving world.
The Strategic Plan (Institutional Development Plan) of USM is generated every five years. The prevailing SP of USM is the Strategic Plan 2023-2028.
- On a yearly basis, an Operational Plan (OpPlan) of USM is implemented in alignment with the University’s Strategic Plan (SP)
- USM measures and review performances through two main systems: Quality Management System (QMS) and the Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS).
- USM developed its Land Use Development and Infrastructure Plan (LUDIP) for 2022 to 2031 in compliance with Republic Act 11396, which requires all state universities and colleges (SUCs) to prepare a long-term campus development plan. The LUDIP serves as a roadmap that guides the university in using its land properly and building the infrastructure needed to support academic growth, research, extension, and public service. The LUDIP is closely aligned with the university’s strategic and operational plans to ensure that all infrastructure and land use developments support the university’s long-term goals and day-to-day priorities.
- USM's strong commitment to excellence is demonstrated through the work of its University Quality Assurance Office (UQAO). UQAO ensures that all university operations exceed established standards and align with institutional goals. One of its key accomplishments is the development of the Quality Assurance Plan for Academic Years 2023 to 2028. This is a comprehensive document that serves as a roadmap for the University’s quality assurance initiatives.
- DBS is committed to strengthen its reputation for excellence in teaching, research, and service. We aim to maintain a high-quality curriculum, enhance student learning through improved facilities, and deepen integration across biological disciplines. We aim to realize of Strategic Goals by achieving or Department and Program Objectives through various Key Result Areas. These are reflected in our 5-year DBS Strategic Plan 2023-2028.
- USM consistently exceeds its performance targets as outlined in the Organizational Outcomes set by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) under the General Appropriations Act (GAA).
Compliance Report
- Since its offering approximately four decades ago (Approved by the Board of Regents (BOR) through BOR Res. No. 10, s. 1978; Minutes of the First Meeting, p. 12, Vol. v, of the BOR of the University of Southern Mindanao, held at the Department of Education and Culture, Manila, 19 May 1978), the BS Bio Program of the University of Southern Mindanao achieved the Level IV re-accredited status by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP), Inc. on 01 March 2020. Now, it is seeking Level IV re-accreditation after this status expired on 28 February 2025. This re-evaluation of the program is reflected in the five (5) year Quality Assurance Plan of USM. This exemplifies commitment of the university to quality education.
The Quality Assurance Plan for Academic Years 2023 to 2028 was developed by the University Quality Assurance Center (UQAC) of USM. This is a comprehensive document that serves as a roadmap for the University’s quality assurance initiatives. This plan clearly defines the overarching role of UQAC, outlines its organizational structure, and specifies the functions and responsibilities of its various departments. It also details standard processes, quality assurance plans tailored for each academic program, and the current status of USM’s quality assurance system. Lastly, the plan provides a clear direction for ISO 9001:2015, identifying priorities and strategies to continuously improve academic and administrative performance in alignment with the University's strategic goals toward the attainment of Philippine Quality Award for Performance Excellence (Level 4) in 2028.