FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 12, 2009
Media Contact: Micki Leventhal, 312-369-7383
Columbia College Chicago will undergo a comprehensive evaluation visit March 30 – April 1, 2009, by a team representing the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Columbia College Chicago has been accredited by the Commission since 1974. Its accreditation is at the graduate and undergraduate degree level and includes all degrees within Columbia College Chicago.
The Higher Learning Commission is one of 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 1,100 institutions of higher education in a nineteen-state region, and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
For the past year and a half, Columbia College Chicago 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 to:
Public Comment on Columbia College Chicago
The Higher Learning Commission
30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400
Chicago, IL 60605
Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs. Written, signed comments must be received by February 27, 2009. 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 the 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 Higher Learning Commission cannot settle disputes between institutions and individuals. Complaints will not be considered third party comment.
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