Off-Campus Programs Receive Positive Report

From the Higher Learning Commission

The Andrews University Global Campus serves students around the world. (Photo by Peter Tumangday)

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has successfully completed its multi-location visit review of Andrews University, affirming the University’s network of off-campus programs and its commitment to delivering high-quality education in the United States and around the world.

The multi-phase review, conducted between late 2024 and spring 2025, resulted in positive findings that reinforce Andrews’ accreditation status and its ability to continue offering degree programs across multiple locations. The HLC multi-location visit is a comprehensive evaluation process that ensures institutions offering programs beyond their main campus maintain consistent academic quality, student support and operational effectiveness.

Preparation for the review began more than a year in advance, with the Global Campus leadership team coordinating across departments and international sites. During the visit, reviewers assessed faculty qualifications, teaching methods, student experiences, facilities and overall student well-being, including housing and dining where applicable.

According to the report, Andrews University demonstrated a “robust network of off-campus programs designed for church leaders, teachers and pastors … who may never visit the main campus but will graduate with an Andrews University degree.” The review highlighted strong alignment between the University’s mission and its global educational delivery, particularly through partnerships and intensive-based programs.

The findings were especially positive regarding the structure and oversight of off-campus education. All programs, whether offered on the main campus or at an off-site location, are held to the same academic standards, ensuring consistency in curriculum and learning outcomes. The establishment of the Andrews University Global Campus in 2024 was also recognized as a significant step in strengthening coordination, student support and compliance across locations.

University leaders expressed appreciation for the outcome. Alayne Thorpe, dean of the college of Education & International Services, noted that the review affirmed systems designed to support students wherever they are. She notes, “Andrews University is dedicated to making students at all off-campus locations feel they are part of its community even if they never travel to the main campus.”

Christian Stuart, associate dean for the Global Campus, highlighted the widespread impact of the results, noting that many Andrews students balance ministry or professional roles while pursuing their studies. He shares, “These programs … create opportunities for pastors and Bible workers already employed by the denomination … to pursue advanced degrees that might otherwise be difficult to obtain due to geographical limitations.” The positive outcome allows the University to continue expanding access to education worldwide.

The report also underscored collaboration as a key strength of the University, pointing to its partnerships with other Adventist institutions and international organizations. These collaborations allow programs to operate in diverse cultural contexts while maintaining institutional standards, expanding the University’s academic reach.

For students, the results provide reassurance that their programs will remain accredited and continue without interruption, an especially important factor for international students and those in intensive or distance-learning formats. The review also highlighted strong off-campus infrastructure as an asset for students, including access to online library services, academic advising and technical support.

Faculty and staff benefit as well, with the report recognizing ongoing professional development opportunities and consistent evaluation processes across locations. Instructors are carefully vetted and regularly assessed through student feedback and site visits, ensuring high instructional quality.

As Andrews University looks ahead, the focus remains on sustaining and expanding its off-campus programs while maintaining the standards affirmed by the HLC review. The successful report reinforces the University’s commitment to accessible, high-quality and globally-connected education, ensuring students worldwide have the continued opportunity to earn an Andrews University degree.