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https://hlcommission.org
Higher Learning Commission
Related Questions
Does HLC evaluate online or distance education programs?
A6: Yes, HLC evaluates and accredits online and distance education programs offered by institutions within its jurisdiction. HLC recognizes the growth and importance of these modes of education and ensures they meet the same rigorous standards applied to traditional face-to-face programs. Institutions seeking accreditation for online or distance education programs must provide evidence of compliance with HLC's criteria, which includes demonstrating effective course design, instructional delivery, student support services, and assessment of learning outcomes.
Can students file complaints against institutions accredited by HLC?
A8: Yes, HLC allows students, faculty, and other stakeholders to file complaints if they believe an accredited institution is not adhering to HLC's criteria or guidelines. Complaints can be related to academic or administrative matters such as curriculum quality, faculty qualifications, student services, or institutional governance. HLC thoroughly investigates all complaints and takes appropriate actions based on its findings, which can include directing the institution to address any identified issues, imposing sanctions, or even withdrawing accreditation in extreme cases.
What benefits does accreditation by HLC offer to institutions?
A3: Accreditation by HLC carries numerous benefits for institutions. Firstly, it ensures credibility and trust by validating the quality of education provided, enhancing institutional reputation within the academic community, and facilitating student transferability of credits. Accredited institutions also gain eligibility for federal funding and financial aid programs such as grants and loans, broadening access to education for students. HLC accreditation also promotes continuous improvement through its comprehensive review process, assisting institutions in identifying areas of strength and areas where enhancements are needed.
What is HLC (Higher Learning Commission) and what is its role?
A1: The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is an independent organization and one of six regional accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit degree-granting post-secondary institutions. Its primary role is to assess and ensure the quality, effectiveness, and continuous improvement of colleges and universities in the North Central region of the United States. Through its rigorous evaluation processes, HLC ensures that institutions meet specific criteria and standards necessary for delivering high-quality education.
How does HLC promote transparency regarding its accreditation decisions?
A9: HLC maintains a commitment to transparency by making its accreditation decisions and institutional data publicly accessible. HLC's website provides up-to-date information about accredited institutions, including their current accreditation status, any sanctions imposed, and details of accreditation reports. This allows students, parents, and other stakeholders to access accurate and reliable information to make informed decisions regarding institutions they are interested in. Transparency promotes accountability and helps maintain the standards and integrity of accredited institutions.
How does HLC facilitate assessment of institutional effectiveness?
A7: HLC places a strong emphasis on institutional effectiveness and learning assessment. It requires accredited institutions to develop and implement comprehensive systems for assessing student learning outcomes, institutional effectiveness, and educational program quality. These assessment processes enable institutions to gather data, analyze results, and implement evidence-based improvements to ensure ongoing quality enhancement. HLC provides guidelines, resources, and support to institutions for designing robust assessment systems consistent with their requirements.
How does an institution become accredited by HLC?
A2: To become accredited by HLC, institutions must undergo a comprehensive and multi-year process. It begins with a thorough self-review conducted by the institution, examining their mission, educational programs, governance structure, and compliance with HLC's criteria for accreditation. Following this internal evaluation, a team of peer reviewers appointed by HLC visits the institution to verify their findings and conduct further assessments. These reviewers then submit a report to HLC's Institutional Actions Council, which ultimately decides whether to grant or reaffirm accreditation based on the institution's compliance with HLC's criteria.
How often does HLC conduct accreditation reviews for institutions?
A4: HLC operates on a ten-year accreditation cycle, during which institutions undergo comprehensive evaluations to assess their adherence to HLC's criteria. This regular process ensures institutions maintain the required standards of quality and continuous improvement. During the ten-year cycle, institutions are also required to submit an Assurance Review, an interim report to update HLC on their progress towards meeting accreditation criteria. These systematic and periodic reviews contribute to maintaining the integrity of accredited institutions on an ongoing basis.
How does HLC ensure ongoing improvement in its accreditation processes?
A10: HLC is dedicated to
What happens if an institution fails to meet HLC's accreditation criteria?
A5: If an institution fails to meet HLC's accreditation criteria, it may be placed on a sanction, which indicates areas of concern regarding the quality of education provided. Sanctions can range from focused attention, where specific issues require attention or improvements, to probation, indicating significant non-compliance with accreditation criteria. Institutions on probation have a specific period to rectify the issues identified. If corrective actions are not taken, HLC may withdraw or terminate accreditation, making the institution ineligible for federal funding and adversely impacting its reputation.