University Accreditation

Resources

What is Accreditation | Institutional Accreditation | 2026 Reaffirmation of Accreditation | Assessment of Student Learning | Programmatic Accreditations | Institutional Recognition | Institutional & Other Affiliations | Institutional Data | Contact Information

What is Accreditation?

Accreditation is a formal quality assurance process in higher education through which an independent accrediting agency evaluates whether a college, university, or specific academic program meets established standards of quality, integrity, and effectiveness. Accreditation is both a stamp of credibility and a mechanism of accountability. Its purpose is to verify that academic and professional standards are being met and to ensure that institutions are demonstrating continuous improvement. Accreditation not only protects students from fraudulent institutions but is required for students to receive federal financial aid. Accreditation assures employers, graduate schools, and state licensing boards that an institution or program meets recognized standards of quality and rigor, thereby demonstrating its legitimacy and value. Accreditation provides the prestige of national recognition and the assurance of quality for students, parents, and community members.

Evangel University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), one of the oldest recognized accrediting agencies, founded in 1895. Many of our academic programs are accredited by appropriate programmatic accreditors, as noted below under Programmatic Accreditations.

In addition to its accreditors, Evangel University is affiliated with a number of communities and associations that provide connections for cooperation and accountability.

Institutional Accreditation

Evangel University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. The Higher Learning Commission is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as one of the nation’s leading institutional accreditors. Evangel has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1965. 

The 2026 Reaffirmation of Accreditation section offers more information about our upcoming visit. 

2026 Reaffirmation of Accreditation

Evangel University has officially begun preparations for its upcoming reaffirmation visit with the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), scheduled for November 9-10, 2026. This reaffirmation process is a regular part of Evangel’s accreditation cycle and serves as a comprehensive review of the University’s mission, academic quality, and institutional effectiveness. Beyond a compliance exercise, the reaffirmation process is an opportunity for our community to reflect on how we are fulfilling our mission and to chart a path for continued excellence.

The reaffirmation process involves a multi-year effort, including self-study, faculty and staff engagement, and the submission of evidence demonstrating Evangel’s commitment to:

• Delivering high-quality, mission-driven education
• Supporting student success and achievement
• Strengthening institutional planning and continuous improvement
• Demonstrating financial stewardship and accountability

Steering Committee Members

• Dr. Jon Spence, Chief Academic Officer
• Dr. Lisa Tyson, Director of Institutional Research 
• Dr. Bonnie Jenkins, Chair, EU Assessment 
• Mr. Stephen Houseknecht, Director of the Center for Student Success
• Mr. Gene Arnold, Associate Professor of Behavioral & Social Sciences
• Dr. Chris Ford, Professor of Education; EdD Program Coordinator

Steering Comittee Dates

Programmatic Accreditations

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Association of Theological Schools
In the United States and Canada
The Commission on Accrediting
10 Summit Park Drive
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania  15275-1110
Member Status: Accredited through Spring 2033
Next site visit: Spring 2033

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National Association of Schools of Music
11250 Roger Bacon Drive Suite 21
Reston, VA 22090
(703) 437-0700
Member Status: Accredited through the 2026-2027 academic year
Next site visit: February 23-24, 2026

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Council for the Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs
1001 North Fairfax Street, Suite 510
Alexandria, VA  22314
Phone (703) 535-5990
Member Status: Accredited through October 2027
Next site visit: Fall 2026

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Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
11520 West 119th Street
Overland Park, KS 66213
(913) 339-9356
Member Status: Seated programs accredited through 2025
Next site visit: February 2026

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Commission on Accreditation
Council on Social Work Education
1744 R Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20036
(202) 667-2300
Member Status: Accredited through February 2026
Next site visit: September 2025 (pending report)

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Institutional Recognition

US News & World Report

2022-23 Best Colleges

Top Performer in Social Mobility

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College of Distinction
201 W. 5th Street
Suite 1100
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 298-2002

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Excellence in Giving Certified
excellenceingiving.com

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Charity Navigator

Four Star Charity

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Institutional & Other Affiliations