Institutional Accreditation

KU has been accredited by HLC since 1913. Maintaining good standing with HLC affirms KU is striving to fulfil its mission and continually improving. It signals to employers and other institutions that KU adheres to minimum quality standards. Additionally, accreditation is a requirement for eligibility to offer federal financial aid to students.

HLC Foundational Requirements

To maintain good standing with the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and with a focus on continuous improvement, KU is committed to upholding the foundational requirements, policies, and procedures set for by HLC.

  • Criteria for Accreditation are the standards of quality KU writes to every four to five years to demonstrate quality assurance and continuous improvement.
    • Criteria 1. Mission
    • Criteria 2. Integrity: Ethical and Responsible Conduct
    • Criteria 3. Teaching and Learning for Student Success
    • Criteria 4. Sustainability: Institutional Effectiveness, Resources and Planning
  • Assumed Practices are adhered to on an on-going basis and foundational elements to the Criteria for Accreditation.
  • Obligations of Membership are requirements of maintaining accreditation.  They are expectations about behavior, transparency, and engagement with HLC and the public.
  • Federal Compliance Requirements are HLC’s process for verifying certain regulations set forth by the federal government. 

Accreditation Cycle

KU is on the Open Pathway which follows a 10-year cycle and supports institutional improvement through innovation.

Resources