Taking a closer look – HLC Criterion 2 – Integrity: Ethical and Responsible Conduct
In this five-part series, we will focus on each of the Higher Learning Commission’s (HLC’s) Criteria for Accreditation, which are the standards of quality by which the Commission determines whether an institution merits accreditation.
The goal of reaccreditation is to assure Illinois State students, as well as families and employers, that the University provides a quality educational experience. Illinois State participates in a ten-year cycle of accreditation, with 2024 being the end of the current cycle. You can learn more by visiting Accreditation | Illinois State.
How Illinois State institution acts with integrity, with a conduct that is ethical and responsible, is the focus of the Higher Learning Commission’s Criterion 2.
Core Components of Criterion 2 – Integrity: Ethical and Responsible Conduct
2.A. – The institution establishes and follows policies and processes to ensure fair and ethical behavior on the part of its governing board, administration, faculty, and staff.
2.B. – The institution presents itself clearly and completely to its students and to the public.
2.C. – The governing board of the institution is autonomous to make decisions in the best interest of the institution in compliance with board policies and to ensure the institution’s integrity.
2.D. – The institution is committed to academic freedom and freedom of expression in the pursuit of truth in teaching and learning.
2.E. The institution’s policies and procedures call for responsible acquisition, discovery, and application of knowledge by its faculty, staff, and students.
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Latest Media Relations
- Governor Pritzker signs FY26 state budgetIllinois State's operating funds will increase by 1% in FY26, with an additional increase of 2% at the discretion of Governor JB Pritzker, who signed the budget on Monday, June 16, 2025.
- Summer Progress Update: Resource Allocation and Budget Redesign ProjectIllinois State University Vice President for Finance and Planning, Dr. Glen Nelson, provides an update on the progress in advancing the University's resource allocation and budget redesign project.
- Illinois State University earns national recognition for advancing science and creativity, student access and earningsIllinois State was one of only 27 institutions nationwide to earn both Research 2 (R2) and Opportunity Colleges and Universities (OCU) designations by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
- Board of Trustees action items, May 9, 2025The Board of Trustees of Illinois State University approved several resolutions at its regular meeting on May 9, 2025.
- New Vertical Farm at Illinois State University to serve as example of sustainable urban agricultureThe Vertical Farm at Illinois State University officially opened on Thursday, May 1, 2025, to train and prepare students for careers in agriculture and horticulture specialty crop production and as a demonstration site for local community groups, schools, and business entrepreneurs.
- Illinois State University and Heartland Community College Announce New Articulation Agreement for Business Administration DegreeIllinois State University and Heartland Community College have announced a new articulation agreement designed to streamline the transfer process for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with the flexibility of online courses.
