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Substantive Change

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) requires that the university notify it of any substantive changes and seek approval for these changes prior to implementation.

A substantive change is any significant modification or expansion of the nature or scope of an accredited institution. SACSCOC categorizes substantive changes into the following types:

  • Institutional changes
  • Program changes
  • Off-campus instructional site changes
  • General changes (changes spanning multiple categories)

Examples of substantive changes include new degree programs, off-campus sites, and joint- or dual-degree programs.

IMPORTANT NOTE: SACSCOC must be notified of a substantive change at least six months prior to implementation:

  • By January 1 for July to December implementation
  • By July 1 for January to June implementation

For more information about substantive change, or if you feel that a change in your area could potentially be a substantive change and/or a dual or joint degree program, please contact Fashaad Crawford.