SWOT MATRIX APPLIED TO THE SELF-ASSESSMENT OF GRADUATE PROGRAMS

Abstract

This study analyzes the use of the SWOT matrix as a tool to support the self-assessment and strategic planning of Brazilian Graduate Programs (GPs), based on the guidelines established by the Brazilian Federal Agency for the Support and Evaluation of Graduate Education (CAPES). This is a bibliographic study grounded in official CAPES documents and scientific literature on strategic management and graduate education assessment. The study aims to demonstrate how the SWOT matrix can support self-assessment processes and guide the development of strategic planning in graduate programs. The analysis shows that the tool facilitates the systematic identification of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, contributing to consistent institutional diagnoses and the definition of continuous improvement actions. The experience of the Graduate Program in Production Engineering at the Federal University of São Carlos, Sorocaba Campus, illustrates the benefits of the structured application of this methodology. It is concluded that the SWOT matrix is an important academic management tool that strengthens the culture of self-assessment and contributes to improving the quality of Brazilian graduate education.