Higher Learning Commission Visits

What happens at the Evaluation Team Visit?

A team of Consultant-Evaluators appointed by The Higher Learning Commission visited Northcentral University in February 2008. The team used the Self-Study Report prepared by Northcentral University as the basis for the evaluation, and assessed whether the institution meets the Criteria for Accreditation. The team examined documents, policies, procedures, course and syllabi material, handbooks, student records, financials, and so on. They met and interviewed learners, graduates, staff, faculty, mentors, administration, NCU's board of trustees, and community members. The team will summarize its findings in a written Team Report with a formal recommendation for accreditation action. This report goes to the Commission's Review Committee.

What happens in the Review Committee?

The Accreditation Review Committee makes their recommendation based on the Self-Study Report, the Team Report, the institution's response, and in some cases meetings with representatives of the institution and team. The review committee serves a "checks and balances" function to verify the recommendations by the evaluation team. They will make their recommendation to the Commission's Board of Trustees.

What action is taken by the Commission's Board of Trustees?

The Commission's Board of Trustees reviews the decisions made in the review process and is the body that grants Continued Accreditation status. This is expected by summer of 2008.