The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is a national accreditation agency that accredits degree-granting colleges and universities in the United States.

Accreditation validates the quality of an institution as a whole and evaluates multiple aspects of an institution, including its academic offerings, governance and administration, mission, finances, and resources. HLC’s institutional accreditation includes all degree levels as well as onsite and online offerings. Institutions of higher education in the United States may also seek accreditation through specialized accreditation agencies. Specialized accreditation agencies accredit programs, departments, or schools within a college or university.

Accreditation agencies are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit degree-granting colleges and universities. Institutions that HLC accredits are evaluated against its Criteria for Accreditation, a set of standards that institutions must meet to receive and/or maintain accredited status. – from the HLC Website

The graphic below links to Stark State College’s HLC accreditation information..