Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

The Higher Learning Commission is one of the oldest accrediting organizations in the United States. The HLC is part of a bigger organization called the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, or NCA for short. Under the authority of the NCA, the HLC accredits schools in Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, New Mexico, South Dakota, Wisconsin, West Virginia, and Wyoming. As you can see, they by no means encompass the entire United States. And unlike some accrediting organizations, they do not accredit institutes that are oversees. By focusing on a small area, they are able to examine a wider range of schools.

The HLC is officially recognized by the United States Department of Education and the Council on Higher Education Accreditation as being a top notch organization for accrediting schools. If the HLC reviews a school and it passes specifications, then that school will have an accreditation that is to be taken seriously. The HLC is committed to promoting the highest standards when it comes to education. If a school does not meet these standards, they will not pass. If they do not pass, they must correct the problems and then submit for consideration again.

The HLC adheres to certain criteria so all of the aspects will be examined. The organization is set up so that there are certain public members that will be present on the board. The board is responsible for the finances and other aspects of the HLC. The board also makes sure that the HLC itself is following policy so that they can remain an important force in the field of accreditation. They are dedicated to their mission, and the board makes sure they stay focused.

Online Colleges Accredited by HLC

Campus-Based Colleges Accredited by HLC

For more information and a complete list of schools accredited by HLC, visit http://www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org/.