East Central University will undergo a comprehensive evaluation visit Oct. 31 and Nov. 2 by a team representing the Higher Learning Commission of North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. ECU has been accredited by the commission from 1922-1934 and since 1947. ECU’s accreditation is at the bachelor’s and master’s degree levels.
The Higher Learning Commission is one of six accrediting agencies in the United States that provides institutional accreditation on a regional basis. Institutional accreditation evaluates an entire institution and accredits it as a whole. Other agencies provide accreditation for specific programs. Accreditation is voluntary. The Commission, which accredits approximately 1,100 institutions of higher education in a 19-state region, is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
For the past two years, ECU has been engaged in a process of self-study, addressing the Commission’s requirements and criteria for accreditation. The evaluation team will visit the institution to gather evidence that the self-study is thorough and accurate. The team will recommend to the Commission a continuing status for the university. Following a review process, the Commission itself will take the final action.
The public is invited to submit comments regarding the university to: Public Comment on East Central University, The Higher Learning Commission, 230 S. LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604, or submit comments electronically at www.ecok.edu/self_study/comments.
Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs. Written, signed comments must be received by Sept. 30, 2011. The Commission cannot guarantee that comments received after the due date will be considered. Comments will not be treated as confidential.
Individuals with a specific dispute or grievance with an institution should request the separate Policy on Complaints document from the Commission office. The Higher Learning Commission cannot settle disputes between institutions and individuals. Complaints will not be considered third party comments.