The College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University are externally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.  In accordance with a ten year review cycle we will present a completed self-study in the fall of 2008.

Accreditation serves two primary purposes.  The self-study process and presentation of evidence to an accreditation agency is a way of demonstrating to an external audience that we are self-critical, that we can identify our strengths and weaknesses and respond to evidence with continuous improvement in mind.  This accountability is important for the broad community that supports and depends on our educational mission, including current and prospective students, employers who may hire those students, graduates and benefactors, as well as the networks of civic and social support that our students inevitably become a part of.

The self-study process demands that we assess formal educational activities, as well as governance and administration, financial stability, admissions and student services, institutional resources, student learning, institutional effectiveness, and our relationships with internal and external constituencies.  By doing this carefully and honestly the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University are able to gather evidence and reflect on it with a collective mindset.  This process inevitably, and ideally, leads to opportunities for institutional self-improvement as well as celebration of success.

This web page includes links to the Higher Learning Commission, particularly the criteria with which they evaluate institutions.  You can also find opportunities to discuss topics related to accreditation.  If you would like to contact a member of the self-study team or review the committees that are leading the self-study, please follow the link on the main menu.  As the self-study develops we will begin posting reports and summaries for the campus community to review.