Higher Learning Commission Reaffirms Accreditation for Washburn University

The HLC is one of six regional organizations in the U.S. that reviews colleges and universities to ensure they meet acceptable levels of quality. Accreditation is a voluntary, independent review of educational programs to determine that the education provided by an institution is of uniform and sound quality. 

Further, Washburn provided evidence that it is successfully meeting all standards based on the required five HLC criteria – mission; integrity; teaching - learning quality, resources and support; teaching - learning evaluation and improvement; and resources.

This review process assures the public that Washburn is meeting national standards set for colleges and universities. While other outside agencies accredit many individual degree programs, like business or education, the HLC accredits the entire university. This accreditation is how Washburn University is eligible for financial support for students, like federal financial aid, and ensures Washburn University courses are transferable to other institutions. 

“The HLC site team leader told us at the exit meeting in March 2019 that our faculty and staff’s passion for serving our students and supporting their ultimate success was evident in the written assurance argument and at all of the meetings and forums during the [HLC] team’s visit,” said Dr. Jerry Farley, president of Washburn University. “Washburn is indeed a special place because of personal commitment to its excellence from each member of our community.”

The HLC is approved by the U.S. Department of Education as an accrediting organization and recognized as a reliable authority concerning the quality of education offered by the institutions of higher education or higher education programs they accredit. The HLC accredits post-secondary education institutions in the central United States – in 19 states. The HLC reviews Washburn University every fourth and tenth years of the cycle to verify continued accreditation. As part of the verification process, Washburn provides written evidence supporting documentation and resources, invites students and the community to share their thoughts on the university via surveys and public service announcements, and provides opportunities during the HLC’s on-campus visit for students, faculty and staff to speak directly with HLC representatives about the university.