Standard 1: Mission

1.1 The institution is guided by a mission statement which clearly defines its character, is appropriate for higher education, and is consistent with Commission Standards.

1.2 The institution shall state in its mission statement its general purpose and specific objectives. There shall be evidence supporting the fact that the programs of the institution are consistent with these objectives and promote the intellectual growth of its students and the employment prospects of its graduates. Moreover, there shall be evidence that the mission statement is consistent with the institution's charter or formal legal authority.

1.3 The institution shall show evidence that the mission statement periodically undergoes a process of review and affirmation at the institutional level. The review of an institution's statement of mission is a major educational decision that should involve the efforts of groups such as faculty, students, administration, governing boards and/or other appropriate groups. The institution shall show evidence that educational decisions are supported by sufficient resources to meet its mission. The institution must also provide evidence which demonstrates the institution's effectiveness in meeting its mission.

1.4 Appropriate publications, such as the official catalog, must accurately reflect the statement of mission.