What is WSCUC?

WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

The WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) is one of six regional associations that accredit public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the United States. Through its review processes, WSCUC confirms that an institution has substantially met the Commission’s Core Commitments and Standards of Accreditation and associated Criteria for Review and, thus, possesses the resources, policies, and practices to achieve its educational goals and has provided evidence of the quality of its educational programs. Accredited institutions are also subject to the conditions established by the Commission, including its policies.

Institutions elect to undergo accreditation review for several reasons besides assurance of quality and adherence to academic standards. Accreditation is necessary for participation in federal (Title IV) and state financial aid programs. Accreditation also is important for the acceptance and transfer of college credit, and is a prerequisite for many graduate programs. Generally, college credits or degrees received at a regionally accredited institution are accepted by other regionally accredited colleges or universities.

Accreditation is periodically reaffirmed through a comprehensive review process that includes an institutional self-study, external review, and site visit at least once every ten years. As a matter of WSCUC policy, Initial Accreditation requires institutional self-review and peer evaluation no more than seven years after the date of the Commission action granting accreditation. HMC’s next comprehensive review will take place during the 2020-21 academic year.

Key WSCUC Publications

WSCUC Leadership

Learn More About WSCUC


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WSCUC Contact information

1001 Marina Village Parkway., Suite 402
Alameda, CA 94501
Phone: 510.748.9001
WASC Senior College and University Commission