What is the HLC?

The Higher Learning Commission is an institutional accreditor that assures quality by verifying that institutions meet standards and is engaged in continuous improvement.

What happens during the HLC visit?

Our next HLC visit will be November 6-7, 2023. A peer review team will spend two days on the NIACC campus. Team members will tour, talk to all stakeholders, and evaluate our Assurance Argument.

Assurance Argument? What’s that?

About 35,000 words that provide a persuasive narrative, backed up by evidence, that assures that our institution is in full compliance with the HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation.

Why is HLC Accreditation important?

The HLC accredits NIACC on a 10-year cycle, assuring the public that we meet certain standards as well as our obligations to students and the community. Our ability to award financial aid to our students is directly linked to HLC accreditation.

You need to know NIACC’s Missions, Vision, and Values

Our Mission: To Enrich Lives

North Iowa Area Community College enriches lives through comprehensive educational opportunities, a commitment to learner success, community engagement, and leadership

Our Vision: To Transform Our Region

North Iowa Area Community College will transform our region into a center of opportunity by creating high-quality learning experiences, providing exceptional services, and forging collaborative partnerships that prepare students, businesses, and communities for success in a diverse, global society.

Our Core Values:

• Educational Excellence
• Learner Success
• Community Engagement
• Continuous Improvement
• Collaborative Leadership