Required Training and Professional Development

Within the initial two-year term and prior to participation in any institutional evaluation, a peer reviewer must participate in HLC training or professional development that educates the peer reviewer in the application of HLC requirements, other HLC policies and the specific processes integral to HLC evaluations. Peer reviewers must fulfill HLC training obligations at least every three years thereafter or within two years after any major initiative such as the adoption of new Criteria for Accreditation.  

Such training may be customized for the specific role the peer reviewer undertakes in HLC’s evaluation process, including training in preparation for a role in HLC’s decision-making or appeals processes. Training for peer reviewers will regularly include segments that take into account the evaluation of academic quality in the context of various modalities.  

Training may take place through in-person events or electronic mechanisms that will allow the peer reviewer to complete the training program and HLC to assess the peer reviewer’s completion of the training material. 

Policy History

Last Revised or Edited: June 2021
First Adopted: February 1994
History:* revised October 2003; revised February 2004; revised February 2010; revised and renumbered November 2012 (former policy number 6.3); edited February 2021; revised June 2021
Notes:

* In the history, “revised” indicates that the HLC Board of Trustees adopted changes to the policy, and “edited” indicates that HLC staff made technical amendments or minor editorial revisions that did not require formal Board approval.