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VCU Self Study for SACS |  |
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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding VCU'S Accreditation and the Accreditation Process Why does VCU seek accreditation from SACS? How often must VCU seek reaffirmation of accreditation? What areas of the university are addressed during the reaffirmation of accreditation process? Who will be involved in developing these documents? What is involved in the peer review process? Where can I find out more information about SACS and the accreditation process? Why does VCU seek accreditation from SACS? VCU regularly performs a comprehensive self-evaluation to assist it in planning for improvement and to assure the public of its overall quality. The "product" of accreditation represents a public statement of VCU's continuing capacity to provide effective programs and services based on agreed-upon requirements. In addition, the U.S. Secretary of Education recognizes accreditation by SACS in establishing the eligibility of VCU to participate in programs authorized under Title IV of the 1998 Higher Education Amendments and other federal programs. How often must VCU seek reaffirmation of accreditation? Reaffirmation of accreditation is usually done on a ten-year cycle. During the eighth year SACS will request that VCU conduct its self study and develop a quality enhancement plan, with these documents being completed during the ninth year. A review of the self study and quality enhancement plan will conclude with an on-site visit during the tenth year. What areas of the university are addressed during the reaffirmation of accreditation process? All academic programs and administrative and educational support units are reviewed during the reaffirmation of accreditation process. Specifically, the Core Requirements and Comprehensive Standards address three broad areas: institutional mission, governance, and effectiveness; programs (educational programs, faculty, library and other learning resources, and student affairs and services); and financial and physical resources. What documents will VCU produce to demonstrate it meets the minimum Core Requirements and Comprehensive Standards? As part of its internal review, VCU will provide three separate documents:
Who will be involved in developing these documents? The new criteria adopted by SACS will result in a much more expedient process with fewer people involved. Representatives from academic programs and administrative and educational support unit will be called on to assist in gathering the necessary information and documentation. Various faculty and support personnel will be assisting in developing VCU's Quality Enhancement Plan based on the issue or issues to be addressed. What is involved in the peer review process? SACS has changed the way in which the peer review is done. First, a small committee of individuals will meet at an off-site location to review VCU's Compliance Certification and other support documentation. Then, an on-site peer review team will conduct a focused review to verify the institution's statement of its compliance and provide consultation regarding issued addressed in the Quality Enhancement Plan. Where can I find out more information about SACS and the accreditation process? Return to the VCU SACS home page and click on SACS Commission on Colleges (COC). |
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Ginter House |
last updated:
11/29/2005
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