Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) received official notification regarding the reaffirmation of its accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). SACSCOC is the regional body for the accreditation of degree-granting higher education institutions in the southern states. The mission of SACSCOC is to assure the educational quality and improve the effectiveness of its member institutions.
“The reaccreditation process began five years ago, and required self assessment and the collection of detailed information regarding virtually all of our programs, procedures and practices,” said Timothy L. Beard, PHSC president. “Collecting and evaluating feedback from the college’s District Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and students was an essential part of the reporting process. We are extremely proud of achieving this significant milestone,” Dr. Beard continued. “Our reaccreditation validates all of the hard work and many accomplishments of everyone associated with PHSC.”
The SACSCOC reaccreditation committee, comprised of educators from throughout the association’s region of 11 states, visited PHSC in October, 2019. The committee placed special emphasis on evaluating PHSC’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP). During the next five years, PHSC’s QEP, Bridge to Success: The College Readiness Experience, will improve student success by providing engaging, meaningful, and relevant learning experiences in four specific areas of college readiness: problem solving, intellectual openness, time management, and persistence.
Out of 79 standards, PHSC received no recommendations, which is a rare accomplishment with accreditation outcomes. The college received two recommendations on its Quality Enhancement Plan based on learning outcomes, which were addressed in the Response Report and accepted by SACSCOC. PHSC’s next reaffirmation of its accreditation will take place in 2030 unless otherwise notified.
Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) serves the educational needs and interests of its community by awarding certificates, diplomas, associate, and baccalaureate degrees. As a comprehensive, multicampus learning-centered institution, PHSC utilizes various instructional modalities and support services. PHSC provides an accessible, diverse teaching and learning environment rich with opportunities for students to achieve academic success and cultural growth in a global society.