Study on University Curriculum Organization and the Operation Plan for Introducing an Autonomous Major Selection System

Objectives This study aimed to analyze the current status of domestic four-year universities with an autonomous major selection system and to derive a plan for organizing and managing the university curriculum. Methods In order to achieve this purpose, out of the 71 schools implementing autonomous major departments, 36 four-year universities were selected for analysis, excluding those with departmental redundancy, industrial universities, and junior colleges. Prior research and policies were also reviewed and an analysis framework was derived in four areas: department educational goals, curriculum organization, operation and support, and other relevant factors. Results The university curriculum organization plan following the introduction of the major autonomous selection system includes: 1) setting department educational goals linked to the university's core competencies, 2) organizing the university curriculum consistent with the educational goals of autonomous major departments, 3) presenting a flexible curriculum organization according to the degree of autonomy of the department, 4) ensuring a balanced organization of the university curriculum, and 5) creating a roadmap for completing the major curriculum of autonomous departments. The operation plan includes: 1) emphasizing the learner's right to decide their own major, 2) changing the role of the instructor to support the learner's learning design, 3) creating a support organization and human resources tailored to the learner, 4) providing information and establishing guidelines for learners to select a major, and 5) operating a continuous quality management system. Conclusions As a result of this research, it was concluded that the university curriculum of the major autonomy department should be based on the learner's autonomy in choosing their major. It should be consistent with the educational goals and objectives linked to core competencies, and should ensure a flexible and balanced major autonomy. Additionally, it is necessary to organize and operate a roadmap for completing the major curriculum of the department.