Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Arkansas State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. A-State has maintained continuous accreditation since it was first accredited in 1928.

Accreditation Pathway

A-State participates in the Open Pathway, a 10-year cycle that emphasizes both quality assurance and institutional improvement. This pathway includes:

• A Quality Initiative in years 5 and 9
  • This is a major improvement effort aligned with institutional priorities and designed to support innovation and measurable progress.
• A Comprehensive Evaluation in year 10
  • This includes submission of an Assurance Argument and an on-site visit by a team of HLC consultant-evaluators.

The next comprehensive evaluation is scheduled for the 2023–2024 academic year.

Comprehensive Evaluation Components

The comprehensive HLC evaluation includes two major components:

1. Assurance Argument
   A-State prepares a detailed report addressing the Five Criteria for Accreditation, supported by evidence. This process provides the university community with the opportunity to take a close look at its strengths and challenges for the future.

2. On-Site Visit
   A team of HLC consultant-evaluators visits campus to verify the assurance argument and provide feedback for continued improvement.

Learn More

• Open Pathway Evaluation Process Overview
• Accreditation Process
• HLC Policies and Accreditation Criteria
• Statement of Accreditation Status