York University recently received exciting news reaffirming its accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). York University has been continually accredited by the Higher Learning commission since 1970, one of six regional accrediting bodies in the country. In addition to reaffirming university accreditation, the institution received a rare perfect score from the Higher Learning Commission who noted all criteria were fully met.
The accreditation process is important because it certifies legitimacy of university programs for prospective students. Essentially, accreditation affirms that an institution meets recognized national standards to provide a high-quality education.
President Sam Smith said, “This significant achievement highlights the university’s devotion to offering an incredible educational experience in every way possible. Our commitment is to an educational experience with a Christ-centered approach that transforms lives and equips students for lifelong service to God, family and society. That is our mission. I would like to recognize our provost, Dr. Shannon Leinen, who did an incredible job leading a dedicated team of servants from across our entire campus to achieve this magnificent result. Praise God for continually leading and blessing this historic institution.”
Institutional accreditation requires a holistic assessment of an institution’s programs, faculty credentials and student outcomes, as well as its administrative infrastructure and financial profile.The reaffirmation decision was granted after a rigorous self-study which included a site visit by peer reviewers in October 2023.
Because of the excellent review, York University will not need to undergo comprehensive review again until the year 2034, but Provost Leinen was quick to note, “The accreditation process does not end because we received this great report. The process of self-evaluation for accreditation should be an on-going process that enables us to continually monitor our own operations to ensure best practice and institutional health in all departments.”