MSCHE Criteria for Learning Experiences

The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) details criteria for an institution’s learning experiences in the Accreditation and Requirements of Affiliation. Standard III–Design and Delivery of the Student Learning Experience–designates that learning should provide intellectual experiences, develop cultural and global awareness, and include “the study of values, ethics, and diverse perspectives.” Learning should also offer curriculums for students to obtain skills including “oral and written communication, scientific and quantitative reasoning, critical analysis and reasoning, technological competency, and information literacy.” In addition, students pursuing a graduate or professional degree should have “opportunities for the development of research, scholarship, and independent thinking.”

Criteria for assessing learning is discussed in Standard V–Educational Effectiveness Assessment. Student Learning Outcomes (ISLO) in curricular, co- curricular, and extracurricular offerings should be mapped and assessed. Faculty and professionals should evaluate student achievement periodically and provide data that shows they are meeting goals.