Substantive Change
A Substantive change is a significant modification or expansion of the nature and scope of an accredited institution such as adding degree programs, changes in the types of degrees offered at an institution, or the creation of off-campus instructional sites. Rice reports substantive changes to its institutional accreditor, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
If Rice is found non-compliant with Substantive Change Policy and Procedures or Standard 14.2 (Substantive change), its accreditation may be in jeopardy, it could trigger a review by the SACSCOC Board of Trustees, or be subjected to monitoring, sanction, or removal from membership. Failure to secure approval, if required, of a substantive change involving programs or locations that qualify for title IV federal funding may place the institution in jeopardy with the U.S. Department of Education, including reimbursement of funds received related to an unreported substantive change.
Substantive Change includes but is not limited to:
Creation of new academic programs
Initiating academic programs with an unapproved or new method of delivery
Opening or closing of off-campus instructional sites or branch campuses
Entering into a cooperative academic agreement
Dual academic awards
Closing of a academic program, method of delivery, or off-campus instructional site
Significantly changing the mission or objectives of the institution
Resources
For the types of substantive change and the procedures for addressing them appropriately, please see the SACSCOC Substantive Change Policy and Procedures. You may also review SACSCOC’s FAQs for Substantive Change.
For all inquiries regarding SACSCOC and Substantive Change, please contact Dr. Diane Waryas Hughey at dw85@rice.edu or OIEhelp@rice.edu.