Overview

This web site serves as Iowa State University’s self-study report for an accreditation review by the Higher Learning Commission, a commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The review is scheduled for March 27-29, 2006. A web-based approach for the self-study was selected to help reviewers more easily access pertinent information that resides on other University web sites. Components of the self-study can be accessed using the navigation bar or by using the “Sitemap” and “Search” features in the upper right corner of the web site screen.

The University concurrently developed its 2005-2010 Strategic Plan and this self-study, thus leveraging the assessment, reflection, and visioning required by both activities. The strategic plan, developed with a full understanding of the goals of the Higher Learning Commission, forms the foundation for the self-study report and the University’s plans for the future.

This first section of the self-study includes:

• The President’s letter, which provides a brief overview of the self-study process.

• Reflections on the 1996 accreditation review and a summary of actions taken on the visiting team’s recommendations

• An orientation to the 2006 accreditation review including changes in accreditation criteria, the integration of strategic planning and self-study processes, and the University’s goals for the accreditation