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Penn Highlands Secures Reaffirmation Of Accreditation From Middle States Through 2034

Pennsylvania Highlands Community College has received reaffirmation of accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The Commission granted the reaffirmation on June 25, confirming that the College continues to meet the rigorous standards of quality and accountability expected of accredited institutions of higher education.

The reaffirmation followed a comprehensive multi-year self-study and an on-site evaluation visit by Commission representatives held March 22–25. The peer review team visited the College’s main campus in Johnstown, along with the Somerset Center. The next evaluation visit is scheduled for 2033–2034.

“This reaffirmation reflects what we strive to demonstrate every day — that Pennsylvania Highlands is deeply committed to expanding opportunities and improving lives through education. We are proud to serve our students and communities by providing a high-quality, affordable, and accessible education that prepares individuals for success while helping meet the workforce and economic needs of our region,” stated Dr. Steve Nunez, President of Pennsylvania Highlands. “I am incredibly proud of the dedication and collaboration demonstrated by our faculty, staff, and administrators throughout this process, as well as the steadfast support and stewardship of our Board of Trustees. This milestone reflects a shared commitment to serving our students and strengthening our communities.”

Accreditation by MSCHE is a mark of institutional quality that carries real benefits for students. As one of the nation’s recognized institutional accreditors, MSCHE accredits a broad range of colleges and universities across the region, including well-known institutions in Pennsylvania and beyond. It allows the College to administer federal grants and student loans, supports the smooth transfer of academic credit to other institutions, and ensures that coursework is recognized by accredited colleges, universities, and professional schools. The process itself relies on peer review and self-appraisal, encouraging institutions to reflect honestly on their work and to improve continually.

The self-study drew on broad participation across the College. Faculty, staff, administrators, and Board of Trustees gathered information, examined data, and worked together to document how the institution supports student success. That collaborative effort produced a report that will guide the College’s planning and priorities in the years ahead.

In reaching its decision, the MSCHE team affirmed that the College meets all affiliation requirements and the Commission’s seven accreditation standards:

• Mission and goals
• Ethics and integrity
• Design and delivery of the student learning experience
• Support of the student experience
• Educational effectiveness assessment
• Planning, resources, and institutional improvement
• Governance, leadership, and administration

Pennsylvania Highlands first earned MSCHE accreditation on June 26, 2002, and its accreditation was previously reaffirmed on June 22, 2017. This latest reaffirmation continues a record of sustained quality that spans more than two decades.