Middle States Self Study
Herkimer County Community College is undergoing a comprehensive self-study process that will continue through 2028, as part of its reaffirmation of accreditation with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Throughout the process, faculty, staff, students, and community partners will be engaged in a thoughtful evaluation of programs, practices, and outcomes to ensure they meet MSCHE standards and continue to serve the evolving needs of our learners and the region.
What Does “Accredited” Mean?
It means Herkimer County Community College meets national standards for education and student support. An outside organization regularly checks to confirm the College is doing what it promises for students.
Why You Should Care:
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Your Degree Counts: Being accredited means employers and other colleges recognize your HCCC degree or certificate as legitimate and valuable.
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Your Credits Transfer: Planning to move on to a four-year school? Accreditation helps ensure that the credits you earn here are transferable.
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You Can Get Financial Aid: Federal financial aid, like grants and student loans, is only available at accredited colleges. Accreditation protects your access to that money.
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Your Classes Are Held to Standards: Courses are reviewed to make sure they are current, useful, and connected to real-world careers and transfer programs.
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Support Is Part of Your Education: Advising, tutoring, library services, technology, and student resources are all reviewed to make sure students have what they need to succeed.
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Your Voice Matters: Student feedback helps shape decisions at the College. What you say in surveys and meetings actually makes a difference.
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HCCC Keeps Getting Better: Accreditation is ongoing. It pushes the College to improve programs, services, and the overall student experience.
The Bottom Line
Accreditation helps protect your time, your money, and your future.
For more information about the Middle States Commission on Higher Education: https://www.msche.org/