Metropolitan State University of Denver will host a Comprehensive Evaluation Visit from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Sept. 28–29 as part of the University’s 10-year Standard Pathway accreditation cycle with the HLC.
Accreditation through the HLC is required for institutions to participate in federal Title IV financial aid programs and affirms that the University meets established standards of academic quality, ethical conduct and institutional effectiveness. The process also provides an opportunity for institutional reflection and continuous improvement.
HLC town hall for employees
Faculty and staff are invited to attend an HLC town hall on March 18, 10–11 a.m., in St. Cajetan’s.
Vice Provost Shaun Schafer, Ph.D.; Lou Moss, executive director of Academic Effectiveness; and Erica Buckland Anderson, executive director of Curriculum and Academic Policy, will provide an overview of:
- The accreditation process and upcoming site visit
- The draft Assurance Argument
- Expectations for faculty and staff engagement
A key component of the accreditation process is the University’s Assurance Argument, an evidence-based narrative that demonstrates how the University meets accreditation standards.
Following the town hall, the draft Assurance Argument will be made available for community review through a secure SharePoint site. Instructions for accessing the document and submitting feedback through a structured Qualtrics survey will be shared by email.
What to expect during the visit
The peer review team, selected by the HLC, will include approximately six representatives from other accredited institutions. Reviewers will examine MSU Denver’s Assurance Argument and evidence file in advance and will meet with faculty, staff, students and administrators during the visit.
Peer reviewers often ask questions related to:
- Mission and institutional priorities
- Shared governance and integrity
- Teaching and learning
- Institutional effectiveness, planning and resource alignment
Additional preparation workshops will be held in early September to help faculty and staff prepare for meetings with the review team.
Faculty credential documentation reminder
As part of ongoing preparation efforts, faculty members are reminded to review and update their education credentials in Workday. Accurate and complete documentation supports institutional compliance and addresses feedback received during prior reviews.
Additional reminders will be distributed this spring.
