What is HLC reaccreditation?
HLC stands for the Higher Learning Commission, one of six independent, regional accreditors that ensures educational institutions put into practice their quality and credibility standards. Each accreditor develops its own standards and criteria and conducts evaluations through a rigorous review process. The HLC looks at the institution as a whole, not just specific programs.
The goal of reaccreditation is to assure Illinois State students, as well as parents and employers, that Illinois State University provides a quality educational experience.
Why should Illinois State’s reaccreditation matter to me?
- Quality assurance – Reaccreditation verifies that Illinois State meets rigorous standards of quality.
- Continuous improvement – Encourages Illinois State to assess its strengths and areas needing attention. This commitment benefits students and alums, as well as faculty and staff.
- Employer confidence – Employers value degrees from accredited institutions because this designation signals that graduates have the knowledge and skills necessary for their chosen field.
- Financial aid – Securing reaccreditation is essential for Illinois State, as the U.S. Dept of Education recognizes it as a marker that allows institutions to be eligible to disperse federal student financial aid.
- Pride – Illinois State’s reaccreditation is a collective point of pride for students, alums, faculty, and staff.
A big deal, a big team
Reaccreditation is a big deal, and it takes a big team to guide Illinois State through the process, which began in spring 2023. The team includes a Steering Committee and seven work teams, comprised of faculty and staff from across the University.
An important step in the reaccreditation timeline is providing an opportunity for students, as well as the community, to weigh in on the unique Illinois State experience and to assess its value.
- Students will receive a short survey via email on April 1.
- Community members will have an opportunity to provide feedback to the HLC in early fall 2024. Stay tuned to local media for more information.
All the hard work culminates when members of HLC come to campus on October 28-29, 2024, for a site visit. While on campus, the HLC representatives will be asking the question and mining for evidence of how Illinois State is ensuring student success, based on the HLC’s five comprehensive criteria and standards.
For more information on reaccreditation, visit Accreditation | Illinois State.
