As an accredited member of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), McNeese State University adheres to all relevant SACSCOC standards as well as SACSCOC’s Substantive Change Policy and Procedures. The University notifies SACSCOC of changes in accordance with this policy and, when required, seeks approval prior to implementing such changes.
SACSCOC defines substantive changes as significant modifications or expansions in the nature and scope of an accredited institution. These changes, as defined by both federal regulations and SACSCOC, include—but are not limited to—the following actions:
Certain substantive changes require only prior notification, while others require notification and submission of a substantive change prospectus six to 12 months before initiation. Many substantive changes also necessitate on-site committee reviews by SACSCOC.
The institutional accreditation liaison (IAL) will maintain current knowledge of the SACSCOC Substantive Change Policy and Procedures. The IAL is also responsible for maintaining contact with the relevant curriculum committees and report any substantive changes to SACSCOC.
When discussions begin regarding any modification to an existing program, the implementation of a new program, a change in the mode of delivery, an agreement with another institution, or any other action that may be considered a substantive change, the University’s SACSCOC institutional accreditation liaison in the Office of Institutional Research and Effectiveness must be contacted. This step ensures that the appropriate process is followed. Once the required SACSCOC documentation is submitted, SACSCOC will either acknowledge the notification or consider it for approval, depending on the requirements for that particular substantive change. Note that some changes may also require prior approval by the University of Louisiana System and the Louisiana Board of Regents.
This policy is distributed via the University Policies webpage.