Campus News

Minnesota West Receives Continued Accreditation

6/8/12
Worthington Campus
Minnesota West Community and Technical College underwent a comprehensive evaluation by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, and has been granted continued Accreditation from the commission until the next comprehensive evaluation to be set in 2021-22.

The accreditation process provides an assurance of quality to the public and also aids colleges and universities in their own planning.  In addition, only accredited schools are eligible for certain federal financial aid programs for students.

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is an independent corporation and one of two commission members of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA), which is one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States. The Higher Learning Commission accredits degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions in the North Central region. 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 1100 institutions of higher education in a nineteen state region.  The Commission is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For more information about the commission visit www.ncahlc.org

For the last year, Minnesota West has been engaged in a process of self-study, addressing the Commission’s requirements and criteria for accreditation.  The evaluation team visited Minnesota West to gather evidence that the self-study is thorough and accurate.  Minnesota West Community & Technical College has been continuously accredited by the Commission.  Accreditation by the HLC encompasses all facets of the College.

Dr. Richard Shrubb, Minnesota West President, notes, “Our process of accreditation is insightful for us as we have a chance to see and discuss the many good things Minnesota West is accomplishing.  Our teams of reviewers have and again made us proud of our college.”

Minnesota West Community and Technical College offers over 60 technical career and liberal arts majors on five southwest Minnesota campuses in Canby, Granite Falls, Jackson, Pipestone, and Worthington along with learning centers in Fairmont, Redwood Falls, Marshall and Luverne, MN.  The College is a leader in distance learning and Internet delivery.  Minnesota West is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. The largest provider of higher education in the state of Minnesota. An Equal Opportunity Educator/Employer. ADA Accessible