Chicago State University Strengthened By 10-Year Re-Accreditation

Chicago State University announced on Thursday that the south side institution has earned full re-accreditation through 2023, a 10-year accreditation, following a complete and independent review of the University conducted by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

"10 years is the longest accreditation that any institution can receive, and it is known in the education community as independent verification of a University's academic and fiscal strength," Dr. Wayne D. Watson, President of Chicago State University said. "This accreditation action is the direct result of the hard work undertaken by the entire CSU community including faculty, staff and students. Beginning with a rigorous self-study that outlined goals, standards and processes, and continuing through the in-depth review sessions with HLC representatives, the entire CSU family came together to highlight the quality work being done throughout the University. The result is a resounding success for Chicago State University."

The positive news about CSU's re-accreditation concludes a process that began in 2010 with the development of a comprehensive self-study laying out CSU's core mission in detail. In November of 2012, CSU had a team of peer reviewers visit the campus and conduct an intensive assessment of CSU's academic programs and management systems. At the end of May, CSU received formal notice that based on HLC recommendations, the University will be re-accredited through the 2022-2023 academic year. CSU has been accredited continuously since 1941.

"As someone who sees the wonderful work that faculty and staff perform at CSU day in and day out, I believe that it is only appropriate that the HLC re-affirms the University's accreditation. I am extremely proud of the many stakeholders who came together to demonstrate the institutional strength of CSU," Watson added. "While this marks the end of one major effort, it also marks the beginning of the second phase of a paradigm change as we continue our efforts to instill a renewed sense of academic excellence at Chicago State University."

Accreditation is the official standing and affirmation that a university provides the quality of higher education that the general public has the right to expect and that the educational community recognizes. The Higher Learning Commission is one of six regional agencies in the United States that provide institutional accreditation. The Commission accredits approximately 1,100 institutions of higher education in a 19-state region and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.