Accreditation FAQ
The accreditation team at Washington State University established the list of frequently asked questions below to address topics of discussion in association with the University’s accreditation review. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities sent representatives to WSU April 9-11, 2018, for an on-site evaluation. To ask additional questions about accreditation or related topics, please email to provosts.office@wsu.edu.
Understanding institutional accreditation:
How does WSU demonstrate that it is fulfilling its mission?
How can faculty, staff, and students from all campuses participate in NWCCU’s on-site review?
How is the evaluation committee chosen?
Are there different levels of recommendations?
Recent history of accreditation reviews for WSU:
How has WSU responded to NWCCU recommendations over the current 7-year review cycle?
Faculty-related topics:
What has WSU been doing to ensure a supportive community and climate for faculty?
How are faculty engaged in assessment of student learning?
How does WSU recognize faculty accomplishments?
Understanding assessment of student learning:
How is the quality of WSU online courses assessed and evaluated?
What is meant by the phrase “Student Learning Outcomes”?
What is necessary to meet accreditation expectations for assessment of student learning?
Understanding governance and strategic planning:
How does WSU demonstrate it is fulfilling its mission?
How does WSU govern its multiple campuses?
How do WSU’s campus-specific strategic plans relate to the overall strategic plan?
What data and tools are WSU using to inform decision making?
Topical updates:
How does WSU approach the need for academic advising?
How does WSU research support the undergraduate student experience?
How is academic program performance improvement monitored?
How is the Office of Student Affairs reorganizing to prioritize student needs?
How does WSU ensure the academic success of students participating in athletics?
How do staff members contribute to decision making and problem solving at WSU?
What is WSU doing to promote a healthy and equitable campus climate and culture?
What is WSU doing in the areas of suicide prevention, education and postvention?
Additional questions?
If you have any additional questions or comments about the accreditation process at WSU, please email to provosts.office@wsu.edu.