North Central Accreditation Self-Study Process

Third Party Comments

Dakota State University is seeking comments from the public about the University in preparation for its periodic evaluation by its regional accrediting agency.

Dakota State University will undergo a comprehensive evaluation visit October 16-18, 2000, by a team representing the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.  Dakota State University has been accredited by the Commission since 1961.  

 The Commission on Institutions of Higher Education is one of the six accrediting agencies in the United States that provide institutional accreditation on a regional basis.  Institutional accreditation evaluates an entire institution and accredits it as a whole.  Other agencies provide accreditation for specific programs.  Accreditation is voluntary.  The Commission accredits approximately 950 institutions of higher education in nineteen-state region.  The Commission is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

 For the past year and half, Dakota State University has been engaged in a process of self-study, addressing the Commission's requirements and criteria for accreditation.  The evaluation team will visit the institution to gather evidence that the self-study is thorough and accurate.  The team will recommend to the Commission a continuing status for the college; following a review process, the Commission itself will take the final action.

The public is invited to submit comments regarding the college:

             Public Comment on Dakota State University
            Commission on Institutions of Higher Education
            North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
            30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400
            Chicago, IL  60602

 Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs.  Written, signed comments must be received by September 15, 2000.  The Commission cannot guarantee that comments received after the due date will be considered.  Comments should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person providing comments.  Comments will not be treated as confidential.

 Note: Individuals with a specific dispute or grievance with an institution should request the separate Policy on Complaints document from the Commission office.  The Commission on Institutions of Higher Education cannot settle disputes between institutions and individuals.  Complaints will not be considered third part comments.

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