CPHE Accreditation Questions

UNC Charlotte has submitted a letter of intent to seek accreditation through the Commission for Public Higher Education (CPHE), a newly formed accrediting body developed by and for public universities, including those in the UNC System. This begins a multi-year process to evaluate CPHE’s structure, standards and long-term implications for the University. It does not represent a permanent change, and UNC Charlotte remains fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

What is the Commission for Public Higher Education (CPHE)?
The Commission for Public Higher Education (CPHE) is a newly formed accrediting organization created by and for public university systems. It aims to streamline accreditation processes, emphasize student outcomes and ensure peer review by faculty and administrators from other public universities. The UNC System is among the participating systems helping to shape CPHE’s development.

Why is UNC Charlotte exploring CPHE accreditation?
CPHE offers an opportunity to explore a model designed specifically for public institutions. It is intended to focus on relevance, efficiency and shared governance while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Joining early allows UNC Charlotte to help shape CPHE’s standards and ensure they align with the values and priorities of our University and other public research universities.

What potential benefits could this bring to UNC Charlotte?
Joining CPHE could offer a more tailored and efficient accreditation process for public universities. Its focus on student outcomes, peer review among public institutions and streamlined reporting could create opportunities to better align accreditation with the work already underway at our University and across the UNC System.

Does this mean we aren’t accredited by SACSCOC anymore?
No. Submitting a letter of intent begins a review and exploration process. UNC Charlotte remains fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) while it evaluates CPHE’s structure, standards and federal recognition process.

Does this affect the accreditation of individual programs, colleges or departments?
No. CPHE accreditation applies only to the University’s institutional accreditation, which is required for eligibility to receive and distribute federal financial aid. Specialized accreditations held by programs, colleges and departments — such as those for business, engineering, architecture, nursing and education — will remain under their existing accrediting agencies and are not impacted by this process.

Is this change required by the UNC System or the State of North Carolina?
Participation in CPHE is optional. Each UNC System institution may decide whether CPHE’s model aligns with its mission and needs. UNC Charlotte’s decision to explore reflects an interest in understanding all available accreditation options and contributing constructively to its development.

How long will this process take?
CPHE’s federal recognition process is expected to take several years. During that time, UNC Charlotte will continue to hold SACSCOC accreditation and participate in all required reviews and compliance reporting. CPHE anticipates becoming federally recognized in 2028.

What guidelines does UNC Charlotte have for CPHE?
UNC Charlotte has outlined guidelines for how CPHE should operate as part of this exploratory process. Among those most important to us are maintaining transparency, upholding shared governance and academic freedom, and reflecting the political neutrality expected of an accrediting body. The commission’s governance model includes representation from multiple state university systems, which is intended to help ensure balance and broad input as its standards take final shape.

Will this affect UNC Charlotte’s R1 research status?
No. R1 status is determined by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, which evaluates research activity and doctoral degree production, not accreditation. UNC Charlotte’s R1 designation will not be affected by this exploratory process.

Does this impact students and financial aid?
There will be no impact on students or their eligibility for federal financial aid. UNC Charlotte’s SACSCOC accreditation remains fully active. Any future change in accreditor would occur only after federal recognition of CPHE and careful transition planning, which would include continuity in students’ financial aid packages.

How will faculty and staff be involved in this process?
Faculty participation is central to both accreditation and shared governance. Members of the UNC System’s Faculty Assembly are part of a multi-system faculty group, Faculty for Responsible Education and Accreditation, who have provided feedback on the draft standards and plan to continue to engage with CPHE. Staff who lead SACSCOC accreditation from UNC Charlotte’s Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Analytics have already contributed to a working group shaping CPHE’s standards. CPHE has also committed to have faculty representation on peer review committees.

Where can I direct questions about this process?
Questions may be directed to the Office of the Provost at academicaffairs@charlotte.edu or 704-687-5717.