The Higher Learning Commission Approves Panhandle State’s Reaffirmation of Accreditation

Oklahoma Panhandle State University has been notified that the Higher Learning Commission has approved OPSU’s Reaffirmation of Accreditation for the next ten years on the Open Pathway for Accreditation. The Higher Learning Commission is one of six regional accreditors of degree-granting institutions, covering 19 states.

One of three options to maintain accreditation, the Open Pathway, allows institutions to design and implement Quality Initiatives to develop strategies and processes for continued further improvement.

OPSU’s comprehensive evaluation and self-study was completed in October, when peer evaluators from across the country representing HLC evaluated the university and affirmed that OPSU had met HLC’s criteria for accreditation.

OPSU President Tim Faltyn stated, “This is the best possible outcome for our university.” “I am honored to work with the best faculty and staff, this reaccreditation and our success is due to the excellent work and dedication our people show every day.”

In addition to the HLC evaluation, OPSU was involved in the HLC Persistence and Completion Academy from 2015-2020. This project included four detailed areas: data collection, community buy-in to data, data dissemination, and using data to further student success leading to them persisting and completing. OPSU successfully completed participation in the Academy, and was invited to continue participation for the next 5 years.