What is the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is an independent agency, founded in 1895, that accredits degree-granting colleges and universities in the United States. Its mission is to “advance the common good through quality assurance of higher education”.

HLC is recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, ensuring its credibility and authority to set quality benchmarks.

The HLC Criteria for Accreditation are the standards of quality by which HLC determines whether an institution merits accreditation. These criteria respect the diversity of institutional missions while being grounded in assumed practices shared by all higher education institutions and guiding values essential to higher education.

At St. Cloud State University, the responsibility for maintaining institutional quality rests with us. We are committed to providing clear evidence that we meet the criteria, demonstrating our dedication to our students and the communities we serve through academic excellence and continuous improvement.

Facts about the Higher Learning Commission & Accreditation