Commission highlights Stockton's commitment to student success.

Stockton's accreditation has been reaffirmed by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) following an intensive review of its programs.

The visiting evaluation team, comprised of representatives of peer institutions, issued a report praising Stockton for its commitment to student success and successfully implementing “high-impact practices to develop students’ critical thinking skills and social consciousness.”

Accreditation by MSCHE is for an 8-year term. It was granted by the association this summer following completion of the regular reaccreditation process, which includes Stockton’s self-study report and Middle States’ comprehensive evaluation. The process included a virtual visit by a MSCHE evaluation team. The next scheduled review will be in 2029-30.

“We are delighted to receive this exceptional affirmation of the quality education and environment we have cultivated over Stockton’s 50 years,” said Robert Heinrich, vice president for Enrollment Management and co-chair of Stockton’s 2021-22 Middle States Self-Study Team.

The report commended Stockton for fostering a climate of respect among students, faculty, staff and administration from a range of diverse backgrounds, ideas and perspectives. Specifically, it cited the university for “its efforts to expand the diversity and inclusion practices of its student body, especially those of gender, race, and ethnicity.” Examples include the Sara & Sam Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center, Los Latinos Unidos student organization, Stockton Voices social media campaign and the Multicultural Center currently under construction.

The university’s commitment to student success, including the numerous academic and individual support services available to students, were also highlighted.

“Stockton’s low 17:1 student to faculty ratio and focus on supporting first-generation and underrepresented students were emphasized in the report, showcasing our commitment to the student-first philosophy,” Provost Leamor Kahanov said. “The MSCHE commission also noted Stockton’s faculty are specialists in their fields, with 96% holding terminal degrees, and play a pivotal role in the retention of students.”

The MSCHE assessments are conducted through a series of rigorous accreditation standards and enforcement. The group’s self-regulation and peer-review process are designed to help institutions improve and maintain quality assurance for parents and students. MSCHE accreditation also impacts the institution’s funding and ability to attract quality faculty, administrators and staff. Accreditation is mandatory for students to be eligible for financial aid.