When QQI validates a programme for the provider's use, the provider then owns the programme.

A provider may develop their own programme and submit it to QQI for validation. Alternatively a programme may be developed on behalf of a group of providers, or provider types, and this programme may be submitted to QQI for approval for sharing. Subsequently a provider may make an application for validation for this programme. Following validation the provider owns the programme.

A programme cannot be offered to a learner by a provider until it has been validated by QQI for use by that provider.