HLC Accreditation

Comprehensive Evaluations

The Review Process

During years four and ten of the 10-year Standard Pathway cycle, SCSU will engage in a comprehensive review and host a peer evaluation team on campus. The comprehensive evaluation typically includes the following components:

Assurance Review

The Assurance Argument, along with an evidence file, demonstrating how SCSU meets the HLC Criteria for Accreditation is submitted to HLC.

Student Opinion Survey

HLC surveys our students two months prior to the on-site peer review visit. The survey gives our students an opportunity to participate in the process.

Federal Compliance Review

SCSU submits a Federal Compliance filing demonstrating we are following the expectations of specific regulations set by the U.S. Department of Education.

On-Site Visit

After the peer review team has reviewed our institutional report and student survey results, it visits our campus and meets with our leadership, faculty, staff, and students as well as with our MinnState Board of Trustees. The visit typically lasts 1.5 days. The team submits a draft report to SCSU for its review and response. A final report and recommendation are submitted to the HLC Institutional Action Council (IAC).

Decision

The IAC decides on our request for reaffirmation of accreditation.

Facts about the Comprehensive Review Process

What is a comprehensive evaluation?

A peer review team examines SCSU’s assurance report and reviews results from the student survey. The team visits the SCSU campus.

How does SCSU prepare for a comprehensive evaluation?

SCSU prepares an assurance report providing tangible evidence it continues to meet HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation. It also administers a student survey and files a federal compliance report demonstrating adherence to federal Title IV (financial aid) policies.

What happens during the on-site visit?

During the 1.5 day on-site visit to SCSU, the peer review team meets with university leaders and hosts open forums with faculty, staff, and students. The team may meet with community members, the Chancellor, and the MinnState Board of Trustees. Its role is to validate the assurance report and evidence, identify strengths and/or concerns, and provide a recommendation about reaffirmation of accreditation.

Who makes the decision about reaffirmation of accreditation?

The peer review team prepares a report and recommendation about SCSU’s reaffirmation of accreditation. It is submitted to the Higher Learning Commission’s Institutional Action Council (IAC) that makes the reaffirmation decision.