College Catalog or Program of Studies? A Guide to Course Catalog Terminology

When you're planning a curriculum overhaul, applying for accreditation, or simply updating this year’s degree requirements, chances are you’re dealing with what’s commonly known as the course catalog. But wait—do you call it an academic catalog? Or maybe a college catalog?

At Clean Catalog, we work with institutions across the country, and one thing we’ve learned is that there’s no universal term for the catalog. Whether your institution calls it a university catalog, bulletin, or even a program of studies, the goal is the same—clearly communicating academic offerings in a format that’s accessible, accurate, and easy to update.

Let’s break down some of the most common catalog terms and explore why the language you use (and how you present it) matters more than you might think.

Course Catalog Software

Course Catalog is the most widely recognized term, and it often serves as the umbrella phrase for all catalog types. Whether digital or print, your course catalog should be the central hub for course descriptions, degree requirements, and academic policies. At Clean Catalog, we specialize in building modern, mobile-friendly course catalogs that go far beyond the static PDFs of the past.

College Catalog & University Catalog Software

While these terms are often used interchangeably, the distinction comes down to the institution type and degree types offered. However, it’s important to note that students often use these terms interchangeably. That’s why, when building a digital catalog, it’s helpful to include multiple keyword variations to improve searchability and user experience. Whether someone searches for a college catalog, university catalog, or simply “classes,” your system should lead them to the same clear, accurate resource. Undergraduate and Graduate Catalogs

For institutions with multiple degree levels, it’s common practice to break courses out into undergraduate catalogs and graduate catalogs. Clean Catalog allows you to segment content in a clean, intuitive way so that graduate students don’t have to dig through general education requirements to find what they need, and vice versa. Our software allows both of these catalogs to be published within the same catalog site and even share content when needed.

Academic Catalog Software

A bit more formal in tone, the academic catalog is often favored in institutional documentation and accreditation materials. It signals a focus not just on courses, but on the academic policies, calendars, and information that shape the student experience. Accrediting bodies tend to use the term academic catalog because it’s inclusive of all institution types—whether college or university—and all degree levels, from undergraduate to graduate. Using this terminology helps ensure clarity and alignment across a wide range of institutions and standards.

Program of Studies Software

Less common but still widely used, a program of studies can either refer to a complete catalog or to an individual program’s roadmap (e.g., "Nursing Program of Study"). With Clean Catalog, we make it easy to publish standalone program pages or group them into intuitive, filterable catalogs. The term Program of Studies is also commonly used by K12 schools. Because of this broader usage, institutions—especially those offering both secondary and postsecondary programs—benefit from flexible catalog structures that accommodate a wide range of terminology and organizational needs.

Course Bulletin Software

Many institutions still use the term bulletin as a nod to tradition, and perhaps in reference to a course catalog that still remains in PDF or Word Document form. While the word might evoke visions of printed books and spiral bindings, Clean Catalog transforms even the most old-school bulletin into a sleek, searchable online experience.

Why Terminology—and Technology—Matters

Whatever term your institution prefers, the challenges are often the same: multiple editors, complex workflows, inconsistent formatting, and the never-ending battle to stay current.

At Clean Catalog, we make it easy to publish and maintain your course catalog, whether you're working on the graduate bulletin, academic catalog, or program of studies. Our flexible platform supports multiple catalog types, integrates seamlessly with your institution’s website, and includes intuitive tools for content updates, version control, and prepping for accreditation. Whether you're updating your college catalog or launching a new university bulletin, Clean Catalog can help you modernize your catalog publication.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to schedule a demo or chat more about your institution’s needs.