Higher Learning Commission

”‹HLC stands for the “Higher Learning Commission.” HLC has agreed to fulfill specific federally defined responsibilities within the accreditation processes to assure quality in higher education for the students who benefit from federal financial aid programs. 

 

Accreditation is a universally acknowledged standard of institutional quality. Specifically, HLC sets out five criteria, which demonstrate institutional effectiveness. The five criteria are: 

1. Mission; 

2. Integrity: Ethical and Responsible Conduct; 

3. Teaching and Learning: Quality, Resources, and Support; 

4. Teaching and Learning: Evaluation and Improvement; 

5. Resources, Planning, and Institutional Effectiveness

 

Accreditation by HLC provides assurance to the public that the College has met the established criteria and the evidence indicates that the College will continue to meet them.  Jefferson was first accredited by HLC in 1969. The HLC Team of peer reviewers will be at Jefferson College March 11-12, 2019.

 

Accreditation is important to Jefferson College and its students. If Jefferson College was not accredited:

1. Other colleges and universities may not accept the College courses for transfer.  

2. It would not qualify for federal monies, limiting, if not eliminating, student financial aid such as Pell grants.