Accreditation and Recognition

Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accreditation, Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) Recognition and Specialized Program Accreditation

There are two basic types of educational accreditation, one is “institutional” and the other is “specialized” or “programmatic.”

  • Institutional Accreditation normally applies to an entire institution. JJC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a nationally recognized accreditor.
  • Specialized/Programmatic Accreditation normally applies to the evaluation of a program or a departments within the institution.  A number of JJC's career and technical programs are accredited by national professional associations and organizations. This ensures the education students receive meets employer standards.

Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Institutional Accreditation

Joliet Junior College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The HLC is one of six regional accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

The Higher Learning Commission accredits degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions in the north central region. They can be contacted at 800-621-7440.

Reaffirmation of Accreditation Letter (PDF)

Joliet Junior College's next reaffirmation of accreditation will be 2023-2024.

Systems Portfolio

Systems Appraisal

Action Projects

Current:

Completed:

Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) State Recognition

The Illinois Community College System is coordinated by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) comprised of citizens appointed by the Governor. Recognition is a statutory term describing the status of a district which meets instructional, administrative, financial, facility, and equipment standards as established by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) (Section 805/2-12f and 805/2-15). Community colleges must be recognized to be eligible for state funding. Based on a five-year cycle, ICCB staff conducts recognition evaluations to assure that colleges are in compliance with these standards. All colleges are evaluated on a select number of standards during the same five-year cycle.

JJC’s current recognition status is “Recognition Continued (PDF).” This means the college generally meets ICCB standards.

Specialized Program Accreditation

Specialized accreditation, also called program accreditation, indicates a program of study maintains standards requisite for its graduates to achieve credentials in the field.