What is accreditation?
Accreditation is a process by which the quality of a college or university in the United States is publicly affirmed and continuously reviewed. U.S. institutions of higher education undergo a combination of evidence-based reporting and peer review to assess the quality of the educational experience. It is also a status held by institutions that meet a rigorous set of common quality standards established by an accrediting body.
What is the accreditation process for Principia College?
Principia College has elected to follow the HLC Open Pathway model, which focuses on continuous quality improvement. This pathway consists of a ten-year cycle, which includes undergoing a Comprehensive Evaluation every ten years; preparing a Mid-Cycle Assurance Review; and completing a Quality Initiative Project. The College recently completed its Comprehensive Evaluation, including a site visit by an assigned HLC Peer Review team, in February 2026. Documents relating to accreditation may be requested by contacting Principia College’s Accreditation Liaison Officer at (618) 374-5153.
