# 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](https://www.hlcommission.org/Accreditation/open-overview.html)
- [Accreditation Process](https://hlcommission.org/Accreditation/standard-overview.html)
- [HLC Policies and Accreditation Criteria](https://hlcommission.org/Accreditation/comprehensive-evaluation.html)
- [Statement of Accreditation Status](https://hlcommission.org/component/directory/?Itemid=&Action=ShowBasic&instid=1018)