Letters of Evaluation
Letters of evaluation are required for the review of candidates for appointment, promotion and tenure. The letters provide essential information to reviewers on the evaluation of a candidate’s contributions, achievements, and their academic reputation outside UMass Chan Medical School.
Faculty members are strongly recommended to develop a list of individuals who can be solicited for letters of evaluation at an early stage—ideally several years prior to their review for promotion or tenure.
Click here to download a guide on Letters of Evaluation (pdf).
Click here to download a checklist to help you prepare Category 2 letters.
The procedure for soliciting Letters of Evaluation is described here.
Click the video below for a brief overview and tips on the Letters of Evaluation:
Letters of Evaluation are divided into three categories (APP Section 3.12.c):
- Category 1 Letters: Attestations. Letters from any individuals who can attest to the candidate’s qualifications; required for appointment or promotion to any rank. See here for more information.
- Category 2 Letters: Unbiased External Evaluations. Letters from non-UMass Chan Medical School individuals who can provide an unbiased evaluation of the candidate; required for appointment or promotion to Associate Professor or Professor. See here for more information.
- Category 3 Letters: Teaching and Mentoring. Optional letters from students, trainees and/or mentees attesting to the candidate’s effectiveness in their educational activities. See here for more information.
Minimum Requirements for Letters
Personnel Action |
Category 1 |
Category 2 |
Category 3 |
Appointment/promotion to |
minimum 3 |
not required |
any number |
Appointment/promotion to |
minimum 3 |
minimum 3 |
any number |
Award of Tenure |
any number |
minimum 5 |
any number |