Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
UND is Accredited by the HLC
The University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association (HLC of the NCA), one of six regional accrediting associations that provide institutional accreditation.
As the largest of the regional accrediting associations, the HLC operates in 19 states that span the midwestern and part of the western United States. The HLC is itself recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, and their accreditation practices are subject to regular review and oversight by that agency.
Self-Study Process
According to the HLC, "accreditation has two fundamental purposes: quality assurance and program improvement." All HLC-accredited institutions are expected to participate in a regular process of self-study and review by site visitors as a means of documenting achievements and efforts in both areas. This involves review of the organization as a whole, including:
- Academic programs and activities
- Student achievement
- Institutional governance
- Administration
- Finances
- Student services and admissions
- Institutional resources
- Organizational effectiveness
- Relationships with external constituencies
Preparing for Accreditation
Comprehensive institutional evaluation for reaccreditation is conducted every ten years. The next HLC accreditation site visit will occur October 28–30, 2013, and will mark the hundredth anniversary of UND's initial accreditation.
