Quality Course Standards

Quality Matters (QM) Overview

The University of Texas at Arlington is committed to offering quality online degree programs and courses. UTA is a member of Quality Matters (QM), a nationally-recognized, standards-based program, that offers faculty quality assurance in online course design with a focus on continuous improvement. Originating from a FIPSE grant, QM is now a self-supporting organization offering institutional subscriptions and a range of fee-based services, including QM-managed course reviews and a variety of professional development opportunities.

Quality Matters uses a faculty-centered, peer review process designed to certify the quality of online courses and online components. QM has developed rubrics that are used to evaluate courses during the peer review process. These rubrics are based on research findings on effective online learning and best practices advocated by leading distance learning organizations. The QM process reviews course design using the following eight standards:

1. Course Overview and Introduction
2. Learning Objectives (Competencies)
3. Assessment and Measurement
4. Instructional materials
5. Learning Activities and Learner Interaction 
6. Course Technology
7. Learner Support
8. Accessibility and Usability

QM at The Center for Distance Education

All online courses designed through The Center for Distance Education will be evaluated based on the Quality Matters Higher Education Rubric. UTA encourages all faculty instructing online or blended courses to participate in this prestigious peer review process. Certified courses receive national recognition in an online database for distance education. Instructional Designers at The Center for Distance Education are available to work with faculty in preparation for a QM review.

*Stats last updated: 03/01/2023