NORTH CHICAGO, Ill. Dec. 20, 2018 — Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) has received confirmation of its continued accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an independent body that reviews colleges and universities for quality in instruction and student learning. Following a comprehensive evaluation in October, the HLC reaffirmed the university’s accreditation without citation, and no monitoring reports are required. Accreditation is necessary for educational institutions to grant degrees and receive federal funding for research and student financial aid.

“This news is a testament to the hallmark of academic quality and rigor at Rosalind Franklin University,” said RFU President and CEO Dr. K. Michael Welch. “Our continued accreditation is the result of collaboration among our faculty, staff, students and administration, as well as our clinical and community partners, who work together in support of our mission.”

The institutional commitment to the university’s mission was noted by members of the HLC review team who visited RFU in October. The HLC’s Comprehensive Evaluation Report also highlights the university’s commitment to student achievement, interprofessional education, and continuous assessment and improvement.

Accreditation is an external review process that evaluates the quality of an institution’s academic offerings, governance and administration, mission, finances and resources. The Higher Learning Commission accredits degree-granting colleges and universities in a 19-state region of the United States, and is one of six regional accreditors recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. HLC accreditation applies to the entire university, for all of its academic programs including those delivered online, and services for all students.