Criteria and Evidence
Criteria for Accreditation
HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation provide a balanced, mission-centered framework that ensures educational institutions uphold high standards of quality, prioritize student learning, and operate with integrity, transparency, and accountability. The criteria respect institutional mission diversity, promote continuous improvement, and reinforce accountability and public trust. St. Cloud State University demonstrates its commitment by providing clear evidence it meets each criterion.
St. Cloud State's Commitment
Criterion 1: Mission
“The institution’s mission is clear and articulated publicly; it guides the institution’s operations.”
Evidence examples: public-facing mission statement, enrollment profile, aligned policies, recruitment materials, community engagement activities supporting diverse perspectives
Criterion 2: Integrity
“In fulfilling its mission, the institution acts with integrity; its conduct is ethical and responsible.”
Evidence examples: audits, university meeting minutes, policies, catalog, costs, campus publications, published accreditations, board documents, academic freedom, research animal care, grants/sponsored programs
Criterion 3: Teaching and Learning
The institution demonstrates responsibility for the quality of its educational programs, learning environments and support services, and it evaluates their effectiveness in fulfilling its mission. The rigor and quality of each educational program is consistent regardless of modality, location, or other differentiating factors.”
Evidence examples: program/course learning outcomes, assessment of student learning, assessment plans, academic program review, course outlines/syllabi, admission policies, modes of inquiry, faculty scholarship/creative works, specialized accreditation, faculty qualifications, student support services, professional development, technology and labs, student outcomes
Criterion 4: Sustainability
“The institution’s resources, structures, policies, procedures and planning enable it to fulfill its mission, improve the quality of its educational programs, and respond to future challenges and opportunities.”
Evidence examples: collaborative planning, organizational structure, data-informed institutional actions, community partnerships, audits, investments, master facility plan, budget processes and allocations, fundraising, enrollment plan, grants, strategic plan, key performance indicators, recruitment and retention, student services, student advising
Hear it from our huskies
King Banaian
"I build partnerships with public organizations such as Greater St. Cloud, the cities of St. Cloud and Sartell, and the Initiative Foundation. I provide requested policy research for such external entities including economic impact studies and the Quarterly Business Report."
Dave Blanchard
"I work with faculty to design more inclusive, modern, aligned, and intentional learning experiences for their on-campus and online courses.”
Alyssa Johnson
"I help ensure learning can be done safely, in a safe environment, and utilizing safe equipment. I ensured an inventory management system for chemicals and hazardous materials was instituted. I maintain AEDs, Narcan, and other life safety items on campus.”
Jennifer Jones
"In all my courses, I challenge students to think differently about the topic, to challenge themselves to consider different perspectives and approaches."
Student Voices: How SCSU Prepares Us for Life, Work, and Citizenship
SCSU has taught me how to balance responsibilities, manage my time effectively, and prioritize what matters most.
Working with classmates from different backgrounds has strengthened my understanding of others and taught me the value of empathy, tolerance, and respect.
Through presentations, group projects, and campus involvement, I've become a more confident communicator and feel prepared to collaborate in professional settings.
Being involved on campus and in the community showed me the importance of giving back and making a positive impact beyond myself.
SCSU has helped me find my voice. I have learned how to advocate for myself, support others, and engage in issues that matter.
Interacting with people with different experiences and perspectives has prepared me to work effectively in diverse environments and become a more thoughtful leader.
My experiences at SCSU have helped me develop both the technical skills needed for my career and the social skills needed to succeed in life.
The hands-on experiences, internships, and networking opportunities I've had at SCSU have given me confidence as I prepare to enter the workforce.
More than anything, SCSU has taught me how to be an engaged citizen, a compassionate colleague, and a lifelong learner.