The HLC Consortium Agreement: What You Need to Know
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is a regional accreditation agency that accredits postsecondary institutions in the Midwest region of the United States. As part of their accreditation process, institutions may need to enter into a consortium agreement with other institutions. In this article, we will discuss what a consortium agreement is, why it is important, and what institutions need to know about the HLC consortium agreement.
What is a Consortium Agreement?
A consortium agreement is a formal agreement between two or more institutions that outlines how they will work together to provide educational services. The agreement typically covers topics such as course sharing, credit transfer, financial aid, and student services. Consortium agreements are often used by smaller institutions to expand their course offerings and provide their students with more opportunities.
Why is a Consortium Agreement Important?
A consortium agreement is important because it allows institutions to work together to provide educational services that they may not be able to provide on their own. For example, a smaller institution may not have the resources to offer a particular course, but by working with another institution, they can offer the course to their students. Consortium agreements can also help institutions save money by sharing resources and facilities.
What You Need to Know About the HLC Consortium Agreement
The HLC requires institutions seeking accreditation to have a consortium agreement in place if they are partnering with another institution to provide educational services. The agreement must meet HLC standards and include specific information, such as:
– The purpose and scope of the consortium agreement
– The responsibilities of each institution involved
– The courses that will be shared
– The process for credit transfer
– The financial arrangements for the partnership
– The student services that will be provided
The HLC also requires institutions to provide evidence that they have safeguards in place to ensure that the educational services provided through the consortium agreement meet HLC standards. This includes procedures for course development, faculty selection, and quality control.
Conclusion
Institutions seeking accreditation from the HLC should be aware of the consortium agreement requirements. A well-crafted consortium agreement can provide opportunities for institutions to expand their educational offerings and save resources, while ensuring that educational services meet accreditation standards. By understanding the requirements and taking the necessary steps to create a quality agreement, institutions can strengthen their accreditation applications and provide their students with a broader range of educational opportunities.