What is Accreditation

Accreditation is a process of validation in which universities are evaluated. Because institutions should be evaluating the past and present to plan for the future, accreditation is an activity of great importance for Oakland University. This evaluation and planning for our future ensures viability, quality, and currency of Oakland University’s programs.

Oakland University maintains regional accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission and specialized program accreditation in OU’s College and professional schools.

OU received regional accreditation in 1966. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), conducts comprehensive evaluations of Oakland University to confirm that the university continues to meet the criteria for accreditation, is pursuing institutional improvement, and complies with requirements set by the U.S. Department of Education. Comprehensive evaluations occur under the Open Pathway: Year 4 and Year 10 during the accreditation timeline. Criteria for accreditation are organized under five major categories: Mission; Integrity; Teaching and Learning; Quality, Resources and Support; Teaching and Learning Evaluation and Improvement; and Resources, Planning and Institutional Effectiveness.

Oakland University qualifies for accreditation reaffirmation in 2029 and a four-year assurance in 2023.