UC's Governance Structure
The University of California operates through a shared governance model involving three primary entities:
The Board of Regents is the university's governing body and derives its authority from the California Constitution. The Regents establish the university's overarching policies and appoint the UC President.
The UC President leads the UC system and oversees administrative, business, fiscal, and operational policies that support the university's academic, research, and public service missions.
The Academic Senate represents UC faculty and has delegated authority from the Regents to establish academic policy, including curriculum approval and academic requirements for admissions, certificates, and degrees.
Together, these groups collaborate to make decisions and guide the university through shared governance.
Understanding UC Presidential Policies
University policies establish the standards and requirements that guide how UC conducts business, supports its mission, and complies with applicable laws and regulations. For most employees, the policies they encounter most often are Presidential Policies.
Presidential Policies are systemwide directives issued under the authority of the UC President and generally apply across all UC locations unless otherwise specified. These policies help:
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws
- Support UC's mission and values
- Promote operational consistency and efficiency
- Reduce institutional risk
Presidential Policies remain in effect across presidential administrations and provide long-term guidance for university operations.
How UC Policies Are Developed
Presidential Policies are developed through a formal process established by the UC Policy on Policies. The process includes:
- Stakeholder consultation
- Systemwide review and comment
- Evaluation and revision
- Recommendation by the Policy Advisory Committee (PAC)
- Presidential approval
This structured approach ensures policies are thoroughly reviewed before adoption.
Examples of UC Policies
Policies cover many aspects of university operations, including:
- Human Resources
- Student Affairs
- Business and Finance
- Information Technology
- Research Administration
- Compliance and Ethics
In addition, individual campuses and specialized environments, such as health systems, laboratories, and natural reserves, may maintain local policies that align with or implement systemwide requirements.
Understanding UC Delegation of Authority
A Delegation of Authority (DOA) is a formal authorization that allows a position to take specific actions on behalf of the Board of Regents. Key principles include:
- Authority is delegated to a position, not an individual.
- Delegations remain in effect when personnel change.
- Delegations support efficient decision-making throughout the university.
- Delegations help reduce legal, financial, and reputational risk.
Sources of Delegated Authority
Delegated authority may originate from several sources:
- Regents Bylaw 30 - The Regents delegate specific authorities to the UC President.
- Presidential Delegations - The President delegates certain authorities to chancellors, executive vice presidents, and other senior leaders.
- Local Delegations - Chancellors may further delegate authority to designated campus positions.
- Policy-Based Authorities - Some policies explicitly define responsibilities and authorities associated with specific roles.
Activities That Commonly Require Delegated Authority
Examples include:
- Entering into contracts with third parties
- Using the UC name, logo, or trademarks
- Soliciting or accepting gifts on behalf of the university
- Other actions that legally bind the university
If your role, applicable policy, or delegation documentation does not specifically grant authority, do not assume you have it.
When You're Unsure
Delegations of authority can be complex. Before taking an action that may require authorization:
- Review applicable policies and delegation documents.
- Consult your supervisor if appropriate.
- Contact your campus policy manager for guidance.
Never assume authority has been delegated to you. When questions arise, seek assistance before acting.
