What is HLC accreditation?
Colleges and universities in the United States voluntarily seek accreditation to ensure they meet or exceed defined quality standards. There are two types of accreditation: institutional and specialized. Institutional accreditation is granted by one of six regional accrediting bodies which use peer reviewers to evaluate the entire institution. It is necessary in order for students at an institution to be eligible for federal financial aid. Specific programs within an institution may be accredited by specialized accrediting bodies that evaluate programs against discipline standards.
What are the criteria for accreditation?
The criteria for accreditation are the quality standards established by the Higher Learning Commission. The five criteria are:
- Mission
- Integrity: Ethical and Responsible Conduct
- Teaching and Learning: Quality, Resources, and Support
- Teaching and Learning: Evaluation and Improvement
- Resources, Planning, and Institutional Effectiveness
What does institutional accreditation mean to Ottawa University?
Accreditation means:
- assurance that Ottawa University is true to its mission;
- assurance to the public that Ottawa University’s programs and services meet quality standards;
- assurance that Ottawa University’s programs prepare students for the future in a multicultural and global society;
- assurance that Ottawa University’s planning and resources are sufficient to achieve its purposes;
- assurance that all activities are conducted with integrity
- assurance that what is said to the public is what Ottawa University can and will deliver;
- and, accreditation today means that our students are able to enjoy the benefits of higher education in a democratic society with the support of federal financial aid, both grants and loans.
What is the status of HLC accreditation?
At its meeting on June 30, 2014, the Institutional Actions Council (IAC) of the Higher Learning Commission continued Ottawa University's accreditation status. Ottawa University has been continually accredited since 1914.