Dear Colleagues,
As you may know, UMBC has been engaged in self-study over the past two years in preparation for the Middle States Higher Education Commission (MSCHE) reaccreditation process. This spring, the work will come to a conclusion with a site visit by the self-study evaluation team from March 8 – 11. Because the evaluation team could call upon any members of the community for questions during this time, it is important that all divisions ready themselves for potential participation.
Through this email, we would like to share information and tools to help you prepare.
Understanding the Accreditation Process
Every eight years, UMBC is required to engage in self-study to reaffirm our accreditation through MSCHE, demonstrating that we meet the MSCHE standards of accreditation and requirements of affiliation. This multi-year process focuses on UMBC’s mission, goals, and accomplishments and identifies potential opportunities and areas for improvement. Our self-study report, titled “Our Commitment to Assessment: Advancing Inclusive Excellence and Elevating the Student Experience,” promotes diverse reflection and dialogue on our past accomplishments with the intention of shaping a thoughtful, forward-thinking vision for UMBC’s future.
Preparing for the Middle States Visit
- Provided online is an overview of UMBC’s Middle States process, information on those who have contributed to this effort, and the MSCHE Standards of Accreditation and Requirements of Affiliation. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with our process and the self-study document in preparation for the upcoming evaluation visit.
- We have also included a one-sheet guide with tips for how to make a great impression during the evaluation team visit.
- Not every community member will be called upon to speak with the team in March, but it will be important for those who are contacted to be available; consider clearing March 9 – 11, outside of scheduled classes, on your calendar today, just in case.
- Members of the Middle States core team will be reaching out to campus leaders and subject matter experts in the coming weeks for additional assistance in preparing for the visit.
Thank you in advance for your help as we conclude the accreditation evaluation team visit. Your contribution to this important process is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Co-chairs, Self-Study Steering Committee
Connie Pierson ’90, M.A. ’92
Associate Vice Provost, Institutional Research, Analysis, and Decision Support (IRADS) and Middle States Accreditation Liaison Officer
Orianne Smith
Professor, English
Manfred H. M. van Dulmen
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs