MSU receives full accreditation again

The official accreditation followed a comprehensive self-study and an evaluation visit by an HLC team.

The commission gave no conditions, stipulations or reports in its accreditation and commended MSU for its effective planning, disclosure of financial data to the public, statewide mission in public affairs, an improved general education curriculum and well-designed learning environments.

“The organization operates with integrity to ensure the fulfillment of its mission through structures and processes that involve the board, administration, faculty, staff and students,” according to the HLC report. “The organization provides evidence of student learning and teaching effectiveness that demonstrates it is fulfilling its educational mission.”

In noting a 10 percent reduction in state funding between 2000 and 2004, however, the commission team suggested the university give more attention to developing other sources of financial support to “provide a greater assurance of stability and quality maintenance for the university.”

The report also encouraged the university to increase diversity, incorporate more external reviews of its programs and faculty and promote its mission more broadly.

MSU has been accredited by the HLC since 1916. Its accreditation, which is based on the entire institution rather than specific programs, is at the master’s degree level. Accreditation is voluntary.

The HLC accredits approximately 1,000 institutions of higher education in a 19-state region and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.