Handbook of Operating Procedures

Handbook of Operating Procedures

Each institution in The University of Texas System (UTS) is required to maintain a Handbook of Operating Procedures (HOP) containing important policies directing the governance, operation and academic functions of the university.

The policies contained in the HOP supplement UT System’s Board of Regents’ Rules and Regulations and UTS policies which also apply to our university community.

There is a defined process for creating an official university HOP policy which culminates in consideration by the President for adoption into the HOP.

The Office of Compliance works with Division Heads and the HOP Committee to facilitate proposed HOP policies through this process. As a new policy or amendment to a policy is advanced, a stakeholder review plan is established to allow for appropriate review and advisory input. Early stakeholder and governance advisory input is encouraged.

Key steps in the formative stage of HOP policy development for administrative/operational policy include:

• Early stakeholder input.
• Use of standardized policy format.
• HOP Committee review and comment periods.
• Approval by the Chief Legal Officer.

Significant changes to HOP policies will post to this website’s “Added and Amended Policies” page.

HOP Policy Maintenance

The Office of Compliance will assist in monitoring HOP policies for periodic reviews by the Division Heads. HOP amendments may also occur whenever other external drivers influence the need for updates. These factors may include changes in federal and state law, Board of Regents' Rules and Regulations, or UT System Policies.