Open Pathway Overview
The Open Pathway is one of two options institutions have for maintaining their accreditation with HLC. It follows a 10-year cycle and, like the Standard Pathway, is focused on quality assurance and institutional improvement. The Open Pathway is unique in that its improvement component, the Quality Initiative, affords institutions the opportunity to pursue improvement projects that meet their current needs and aspirations.
All institutions eligible to choose a pathway may participate in the Open Pathway.
Policies
Substantive Requirements for Reaffirmation of Accreditation: Policy number INST.C.10.010
Process Requirements for Each Pathway: Policy number INST.C.10.020
Process Requirements Leading to HLC Action for Reaffirmation: Policy number INST.C.10.030
Procedures
The Open Pathway’s 10-year cycle includes the following institutional reviews:
Regular Monitoring
Institutions submit an annual Institutional Update, which is reviewed by HLC to monitor organizational health, comply with certain federal requirements, and identify any changes that may require HLC follow up. HLC will also apply change processes as appropriate to planned institutional developments, and will monitor institutions through reports, visits and other means as it deems appropriate.
Year 4: Assurance Review
Institutions complete an Assurance Review to ensure they are continuing to meet HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation. The institution provides documentation demonstrating how it fulfills each Criterion and Core Component. A peer review team evaluates these materials and recommends whether the institution should continue in the cycle or whether additional monitoring is required. HLC’s Institutional Actions Council (IAC) reviews and takes official action on the recommendation.
Years 5-9: Quality Initiative
Institutions design and undertake a Quality Initiative project. HLC peer reviewers approve an initial project proposal, as well as a report on the outcomes of the project.
Year 10: Comprehensive Evaluation for Reaffirmation
Institutions undergo a comprehensive evaluation to ensure they are meeting the Criteria for Accreditation, pursuing institutional improvement and complying with certain requirements set by the U.S. Department of Education. This review leads to an action regarding the reaffirmation of the institution’s accreditation.