Introduction

The following is an introduction to standards and their use in self-study. This information was provided by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Structure of the Standards

Each of the nine Standards is identified by number and name (e.g., Standard Three - Students). The scope of each Standard is provided in lettered Standard Elements (e.g., 3.A, 3.B, 3.C). Each Standard Element is accompanied by a statement that represents the general intent of the Standard Element. Further definition of Standard Elements is provided in the form of numbered Standard Indicators (e.g., 3.A.1, 3.A.2, 3.A.3).

Related accreditation Policies follow several of the Standards. These Policies are considered part of the Standard and are intended to further define the Standard.

Following each Standard and the Related Policies is a section which identifies supporting documentation for the standard. The purpose of the supporting documentation is to provide evidence of the manner in which each standard and its elements are met. The evidence is to provide greater meaning to the narrative and analysis of the self-study.

The Commission has identified three kinds of documentation:

Required Documentation

Documents or information embedded in the body of the self-study report, provided in the appendices, or included with the self-study
materials sent to the Commission office;

Required Exhibits

Documents or information to be summarized in the self-study, provided in the appendices, included with the self-study materials sent to the Commission office, or made available in the room on campus provided for the evaluation committee;

Suggested Materials

Documents or information recommended to the institution for
consideration in documenting the self-study report. They should be made available in the room on campus provided for the evaluation committee.

Self-Study, Supporting Documentation, and Accreditation Policies

In preparing the self-study report and visit, the institution is expected to demonstrate that it meets each standard, each element of the Commission’s Eligibility Requirements and accreditation Standards and Related Policies, and all other applicable policies. The self-study document should be succinct, thoughtful, and analytical including an appraisal of the institution’s strengths, weaknesses, and achievements relative to each standard.