Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs

The Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (OVPAA) serves as the central academic authority of Tarlac State University, providing strategic leadership and governance to ensure that academic programs and services uphold the highest standards of quality, relevance, and responsiveness. Guided by the Instructional Quality and Relevance Development Plan as its fundamental roadmap, the office is committed to continuous enhancement of teaching and learning across all colleges, academic offices, and support units. Academic policies and practices are aligned with national and international standards, regulatory requirements, and stakeholder expectations.

To strengthen instructional quality, the office works closely with faculty and academic leaders in promoting faculty development, innovative teaching approaches, and learner-centered pedagogy. Through the Office of Curriculum and Instruction (OCI), the OVPAA ensures that curriculum development and program review are systematically undertaken to keep academic programs responsive to industry demands, societal needs, and emerging global trends. Outcome-based education and program assessment are utilized to monitor student learning outcomes and guide improvements that promote academic excellence and student success.

The OVPAA also plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with accreditation and quality assurance requirements in close coordination with the Office of Quality Assurance (OQA). It supports the OQA by coordinating with colleges to ensure the timely preparation and submission of all required accreditation documentation, and by assisting in the facilitation of internal and external evaluation processes. This support helps ensure that academic units maintain continuous readiness for accreditation and strengthens the university’s commitment to quality assurance through evidence-based practices.

Research and innovation are particularly essential to TSU’s academic mission. While the Office of University Research Development (OURD) leads the university’s research agenda, the OVPAA supports faculty and student research activities by promoting ethical research practices, encouraging collaboration among academic units, and supporting the dissemination of research outputs that contribute to meaningful solutions for communities served.

Extension and community engagement are also integral to the university’s academic responsibilities. In coordination with the Office of University Extension Services (OUES), the OVPAA supports extension initiatives by ensuring their integration with academic instruction and student learning. The office assists in mobilizing colleges and academic units for extension activities and in fostering partnerships with government agencies, industry, NGOs, and community organizations to ensure relevance and sustainability of extension programs.

To ensure access to quality learning resources, the OVPAA assists the Office of Library Management and Services (OLMS) in developing and managing both physical and digital collections, including information resources, research databases, and learning materials. The office also promotes information literacy, modern library systems, and resource-sharing initiatives that strengthen academic teaching and research. Continuous modernization of learning environments and academic facilities is likewise prioritized to provide safe, accessible, and technology-enabled spaces for teaching and learning.

Student success and welfare remain at the core of academic affairs. Through the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), the OVPAA supports the delivery of comprehensive student support programs, including academic advising, counseling, scholarship management, and student development initiatives. These services are designed to be student-centered, inclusive, and responsive to the diverse needs of learners. Support is also provided for programs that foster leadership development, career readiness, and civic engagement to prepare students for professional life and responsible citizenship.

The Office of Admission and Registration (OAR) facilitates the admission and enrollment process for both incoming and continuing students. It ensures the integrity and accuracy of student records, maintains compliance with university policies, and provides efficient registration services that facilitate smooth academic progression, timely program completion, and graduation.

The Office of National Service Training Program (NSTP) oversees the implementation of civic education and community service programs. It coordinates NSTP courses and activities that develop students’ leadership, social responsibility, and civic consciousness through literacy training, civic welfare projects, and community engagement initiatives. The OVPAA supports NSTP operations by ensuring alignment with academic schedules and integration with broader student development objectives.

As the OVPAA manages academic resources, responsible and sustainable utilization of faculty, facilities, instructional materials, and technology is ensured. Efficient planning and allocation of resources are prioritized to support academic priorities and institutional sustainability. Strong partnerships with alumni, industry, government agencies, and community organizations are harnessed to ensure that academic programs remain relevant and responsive to emerging needs.

Through strategic leadership, evidence-based decision-making, and continuous improvement, the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs remains committed to delivering high-quality tertiary education, supportive learning environments, and meaningful academic outcomes. Together with the academic community, TSU continues to produce competent, ethical, and globally competitive graduates while advancing sustainable educational outcomes and high stakeholder satisfaction.