Assessment

At Kalamazoo College, assessment is a collaborative effort involving faculty and staff at both the department and unit levels. This work is further supported at the institution level by the Institutional Assessment Committee, ensuring a comprehensive approach to evaluating and enhancing our educational programs.

Department and Unit Level Assessment

Each department and unit within Kalamazoo College takes an active role in assessing their respective programs, encompassing both curricular and co-curricular activities. This decentralized approach allows for tailored evaluations that address the unique needs and goals of each academic and administrative unit, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Institutional Assessment Committee

The Institutional Assessment Committee provides oversight and coordination for assessment activities across the campus. This committee ensures that assessment efforts are aligned with K’s strategic goals and educational mission, supporting a unified approach to institutional effectiveness.

Consultation and Support

The Office of Institutional Research is committed to assisting departments in their assessment endeavors. If a department is interested in determining what data may be available or appropriate for their program evaluation or assessment project, our office offers consultation services to discuss their needs and provide guidance on suitable data resources.

By working together, we ensure that our assessment practices not only meet accreditation standards but also drive meaningful improvements in our programs and student outcomes. At Kalamazoo College, we are dedicated to fostering an environment of excellence through continuous assessment and reflection.

Strategic Planning

Strategic Planning Drafts and Feedback – We are currently in the midst of a strategic planning process organized under four pillars: curriculum and co-curricular programs, community, campus, and endowment. Kalamazoo College values academic rigor and all components of a liberal arts education embodied in our K-Plan; inclusion and equity; residential experiences for students that contribute to their growth as leaders; sustainability; and mission-driven creativity and innovation. Our strategic plan is being designed to encompass these values. Drafts are available for review.

Accreditation

Reaffirmation of Accreditation – Kalamazoo College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), ensuring the quality and value of our education and providing access to federal funding opportunities. Every ten years, the College undergoes a comprehensive evaluation for reaccreditation. We recently completed this process with a site visit on October 3-4, 2022.

In January 2023, we received notification from the HLC that our institutional accreditation has been reaffirmed with no required follow-up monitoring or reporting. This successful outcome reflects our commitment to academic excellence and institutional integrity.

A copy of the review team’s final report is available to members of the campus community. Please note that this report is not available to the general public.

Our continued accreditation underscores our dedication to maintaining high standards and providing a transformative liberal arts education.