SACSCOC Governing Documents

Policies

A policy is a required course of action to be followed by the SACSCOC institutions. SACSCOC policies may also include procedures, which are likewise a required course of action to be followed by SACSCOC or its member or candidate institutions. The Principles of Accreditation requires that an institution comply with the policies and procedures of SACSCOC. Policies are approved by vote of the SACSCOC Board of Trustees. At its discretion, the Board may choose to forward a policy to the College Delegate Assembly for approval.

Interpretations

An interpretation is a clarification of the expectations required of member or candidate institutions for documenting compliance with the Principles of Accreditation. Interpretations are approved by vote of the SACSCOC Board of Trustees.

Guidelines

A guideline is an advisory statement designed to assist institutions in fulfilling accreditation requirements. As such, guidelines describe recommended educational practices for documenting requirements of the Principles of Accreditation and are approved by the Executive Council. The guidelines are examples of commonly accepted practices that constitute compliance with the standard. Depending upon the nature and mission of the institution, however, other approaches may be more appropriate and also provide evidence of compliance.

Good Practices

Good practices are commonly-accepted practices within the higher education community that enhance institutional quality. Good practices may be formulated by outside agencies and organizations and endorsed by the Executive Council or the SACSCOC Board of Trustees.

Position Statements

A position statement examines an issue facing SACSCOC members, describes appropriate approaches, and states SACSCOC’s stance on the issue. It is endorsed by the Executive Council or the SACSCOC Board of Trustees.

Handbooks

Forms and Templates