Contractual Arrangements

Contractual arrangements with other entities represent a method of providing some goods and services to colleges and universities. When an institution outsources a portion of an academic program (including certificates), particularly to an entity not accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, an HLC priority is to ensure the institution has not delegated its fundamental responsibilities in a way that diminishes its capacity to ensure and maintain educational quality. Institutions should consider carefully whether a contract represents an “outsourcing” of its educational activities and whether HLC approval is required.

HLC expectations as expressed in the Assumed Practices, the Guiding Values, and the Criteria for Accreditation are congruent with an evaluation of contractual arrangements where they touch upon teaching and learning. HLC’s Guiding Values state:

“The responsibility for assuring the quality of an institution rests first with the institution itself. Institutional accreditation assesses the capacity of an institution to assure its own quality and expects it to produce evidence that it does so.”

Contractual arrangements remain subject to HLC review during comprehensive evaluations, or at other times if they become a matter of concern, as part of HLC’s efforts to ensure the institution’s ongoing compliance with the Assumed Practices and the Criteria for Accreditation. In addition, the U.S. Department’s expectations of institutions with regard to contractual arrangements can include significant implications for Title IV funding.

Institutions should complete the screening form for each credit-bearing academic program (degree or certificate). Questions? Contact changerequest@hlcommission.org.