HLC Recognition by External Agencies
U.S. Department of Education
By law, the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) relies in part on accrediting agencies to determine eligibility for U.S. government assistance under certain legislation. USDE oversees a recognition program by which it identifies reliable authorities on the quality of educational organizations and programs. HLC is among these governmentally recognized authorities and seeks renewal of USDE recognition at least every five years.
To be recognized by USDE, HLC must agree to do certain things required by law and the USDE. These include holding to a schedule of reporting to the USDE and to state agencies, as well as including a review of the record of the educational organization’s relationship with USDE.
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) is a private nonprofit organization that coordinates accreditation activities in the United States. CHEA represents degree-granting colleges and universities as well as institutional and programmatic accrediting organizations. CHEA also provides information about accreditation, degree mills, and accreditation mills. The Higher Learning Commission is a CHEA-recognized accrediting body.
Submit Comments: CHEA invites comments on HLC’s continued recognition. Submit comments by September 28.
