Follow-Up
Post Site Visit
Following Up After the Site Visit
Typically, the on-site visit ends with the review team providing a closing statement, including cited strengths and suggestions, along with an indication of their recommendation for accreditation/certification. Shortly after the team departs, the unit should collectively discuss the results and formulate actions to improve the program based on the suggestion(s). Particular attention should be given to rectifying any shortcomings and addressing issues requiring follow-up responses.
Submitting Final Self-Review Report
The final self-review report and any other required documentation must be submitted to the agency as and when requested. A copy of the material submitted must also be retained internally. Please forward a copy of the submission documentation and self-review report to the assistant vice provost for Program Accreditation and Assessment.
Seeking Reimbursement of Accreditation Expenses
Once all expenses associated with the initial or reaffirmation of accreditation/certification have been paid and tallied, a summary and total should be sent to the Academic Budget Office. Expenses directly associated with accreditation/certification will be reimbursed to the academic unit. However, ongoing expenses, such as annual fees, will be the responsibility of the academic unit.
Forwarding Letter of Accreditation/Certification/Reaffirmation
After an action has been taken by the accrediting/certifying agency, a letter indicating the length of accreditation/certification as well as the need for any follow-up actions is ordinarily sent to the academic unit and copied to the dean and provost and/or president. Carefully note any required follow-up actions and deadlines and plan accordingly. Also, please forward a copy of the formal letter to the assistant vice provost for Program Accreditation and Assessment.
Maintaining Accreditation/Certification
Submitting Follow-Up Reports
Based on the review findings, follow-up reports may be required to address specific criteria or standards. The unit should pay specific attention to the details in the request when drafting the follow-up report. When follow-up reports are required please forward a copy of the report to the assistant vice provost for Program Accreditation and Assessment.
Submitting Ongoing Accreditation Maintenance Reports
Accrediting/certifying agencies often require ongoing maintenance reports on an annual or biannual basis. Some are merely forms while others require more detailed discussion. Make sure that any required maintenance reports are scheduled and that someone is tasked with seeing that the deadlines are met.
Monitoring Changes
The unit should continue monitoring any changes to accreditation/certification standards, guidelines, and timelines and make the necessary adjustments to meet new expectations.
Representing Accreditation/Certification to the Public
The unit is expected to responsibly and accurately represent its accreditation/certification status to the public. Reference to accreditation/certification in publications, websites, and presentations should adhere to standards specified by the accrediting/certifying agency.
Notifying Accrediting Agency of Changes
The unit is obligated to inform the accrediting/certifying agency of significant university, college, department or programmatic changes that could potentially impact the accreditation/certification status. The assistant vice provost for Program Accreditation and Assessment will assist with determining what, how, and when changes should be reported.