The MSCHE Defined

The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is a voluntary, non-governmental, regional membership association currently serving higher education institutions in Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and other geographic areas in which the Commission conducts accrediting activities.

Mission

The Middle States Commission on Higher Education assures students and the public of the educational quality of higher education. The Commission’s accreditation process ensures institutional accountability, self-appraisal, improvement, and innovation through peer review and the rigorous application of standards within the context of institutional mission.

Principles

The Commission operates with four fundamental principles. These are not just strategic activities; they are fundamental to the continued operation of the organization.

1. The Commission maintains its historic commitment to quality assurance in institutions of higher education.
2. The Commission maintains U.S. Department of Education recognition and continues to meet federal regulatory requirements.
3. The Commission provides service and support to member institutions as they implement accreditation standards and engage in continuous improvement initiatives.
4. The Commission maintains a sustainable business model.

Strategic Goals and Objectives

Strategic Goal 1: Provide relevant and reliable assurance of educational quality through an effective and efficient accreditation model that promotes innovation.

Objectives:

• Implement the adopted accreditation model using the 2014 Standards for Accreditation and Requirements of Affiliation.
• Continue to expand training and support of peer volunteers
• Explore further opportunities to support innovation within member institutions.

Strategic Goal 2: Continue to secure sufficient resources to support a forward looking and adaptive organization.

Objectives:

• Further strengthen the Commission’s human resources
• Ensure fiscal strength and stability
• Maintain a sustainable and adaptive infrastructure.

Strategic Goal 3: Promote the value of accreditation through advocacy and education.

Objectives:

• Increase engagement with accreditation stakeholders.
• Support accreditation advocacy by member institutions.

Governance

For an explanation of how the Commission on Higher Education relates to the Middle States Association and how it governs itself, see the FAQ “About the Middle States Association and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.”

Source:  https://www.msche.org/?Nav1=ABOUT&Nav2=MISSION

MSCHE Standards