Office of Planning, Research and Accreditation (OPRA)

The Office of Planning, Research and Accreditation (OPRA) facilitates college-wide continous improvement, innovation, data driven decision making, and accountability through the integration of strategic planning and institutional research. Together, these functions play a central role in the decision-making needs of the college, promote institutional effectiveness, and sustain vitality in a rapidly changing environment.

As a department under the Office of Instruction, the OPRA is responsible for leadership, administration and advocacy in the functions of long and short-range strategic planning and institutional research to enhance innovation and ensure student success.

OPRA's planning responsibilities include leading development of the Education and Facilities Master Plan by coordinating the efforts of College constituents and facilitating the sharing of best practices. OPRA also plays a vital role in the development and implementation of the College's Strategic Plan.

OPRA's research responsibilites include working closely with the Academic Senate, Classified Senate, as well as college administrators, faculty and staff to enhance professional development programs to achieve college strategic planning and research goals. Researchers also assist the Education Planning and Assessment Committee (EPA) for the integration of Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)/Administrative Unit Outcomes (AUOs), and Program Reviews/Administrative Unit Reviews (AURs) with College planning and resource allocation processes.

OPRA's accreditation responsibilities include providing support for the self-study that is conducted every six years and the mid-term report every three years. Research staff also sit on accreditation committees to provide perspective on institutional statistics and trends regarding student success.

OPRA designs and facilitates training, workshops, and presentations for the College community on all aspects of planning, research and resource development.

We look forward to assisting you!