Application Process

The application process consists of the following:

• The president of a NEASC-accredited or Board of Higher Education-approved institution with a criminal justice or law enforcement degree program must submit a letter to the Commissioner of the Board of Higher Education by May 1 of the year the application will be submitted, indicating the institution's intent to seek approval of its criminal justice degree program(s) during the first year of implementation of the Guidelines. The letter of intent shall include a statement of commitment to implement Standard D: Admission and Articulation for all students enrolling in a criminal justice or law enforcement program after May 1, 2005, and the date on which the institution expects to submit its application.

• Submit an application by September 30, that includes a self-assessment based upon the Quality Standards for each program to be considered for approval. One electronic copy (CD) and one hard copy of all application materials must be submitted along with a copy of the college's catalog.
  • Application Outline
  • Application Download
  • Instructions on Working with Application
  • Instructions on Demonstrating Compliance with Standards
  • Application Checklist

• Undergo an evaluation by an external review committee appointed by the Board of Higher Education and respond to that evaluation. A date for the evaluation by the review committee will be determined once an application is received. Most reviews will occur in October and November. The external review committee's evaluation and the institution's response will be reviewed by Board of Higher Education staff, who will make a recommendation to the Board of Higher Education to defer, approve, or disapprove the application.
  • Site Visit Preparation Checklist

• The Board will take action by formal vote and will clearly state the reasons for its decision. Institutions that are not approved may appeal the decision. All approved institutions will submit annual reports to the Board of Higher Education and will be subject to review by the Board every five years.