Caltech Accreditation Preparation Process

Process & Proposal 2020

The process leading to the Review Report was conducted in phases to ensure timely completion. The work in each phase was shared by the Administration, Accreditation Steering Committee, and Thematic Working Groups.

Background and Work Plan

A review was conducted on reports to assess the status of thematic activities in place during the last accreditation and mid-cycle review. From the review, a list of specific goals developed for the working group and a timeline was prepared to guarantee completion of the remaining work.

Initial Data Collection, Gap Analysis, Final Work Plan

Specific Criteria for Review (CFRs) within the Compliance with WSCUC Standards and Federal Requirements Worksheet addressed by or remaining fully or partially unmet by prior activities and initiatives had been identified.

Data Collection and Analysis

Evidence was provided showing significant changes made since the 2010 accreditation process. The success of these activities and initiatives against their intended outcomes had been assessed demonstrating the achievement of Caltech's academic and educational goals. Additional data collected and new analytical tools and processes were designed to confirm that the new efforts met CFRs.

Preparation of Working Group Reports

A description of specific activities and initiatives to Caltech's mission and institutional goals and the extent of improvements in educational effectiveness and student achievement were provided by the working groups in their reports. The report also included descriptions on how Caltech analyzed and utilized data collected to improve institutional outcomes and efforts, to ensure completion and implementation in the future.

Preparation of Final Report

A completed WSCUC Standards and Federal Requirements Worksheet including specific evidence that CFRs were met in the form of links to Caltech website pages, reference to pages in institutional reports, reference to specific sections of Institute handbooks or guides, and specially written material was submitted. Thematic Working Group narrative reports had also been incorporated into the final Accreditation Review Report.