B-CU SACSCOC Probation Fact Sheet

For over 114 years, Bethune-Cookman University has provided quality education, professional and inspiring leadership, and a faith based environment, on a historic campus catered to students from around the world. Our mission since our founding has never changed!

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) is one of several regional and national organizations that certify colleges and universities.

For the first time in our history, B-CU was placed on probation in 2018 by SACSCOC and as a result, the University has developed a plan of corrective action to fulfill the requirements of the probationary period. Similar universities like B-CU, have found themselves in a related position and have successfully emerged through the process as much stronger, efficient and vibrant institutions.

To assist our stakeholders in addressing misinformation and to provide a foundation of factual information directly from the University, we have developed this fact sheet to address the important issues and plans for the future of B-CU.

What is SACSCOC Probation?
SACSCOC Probation is a public status signifying that an accredited institution is no longer in compliance with one or more of SACSCOC Principles of Accreditation. Bethune-Cookman University's accreditation remains in effect during the Probation period, during which time we will address SACSCOC's recommendations. Once we document that we have corrected the deficiencies and complied with SACSCOC standards, B-CU will return to normal accreditation status with no lapse in accreditation.

Why Is B-CU on Probation?
B-CU was placed on Probation following review of the University’s response to third party unsolicited information from media sources alleging non-compliance with the standards related to the governing board, control of finances, external finances and the Chief Executive Officer. At its June 14, 2018 meeting, the Board of Trustees for the SACSCOC placed Bethune-Cookman University on Probation because it determined that the University had failed to demonstrate compliance with Core Requirement 1.1 (Integrity), Core Requirement 4.1 (Governing board characteristics), Core Requirement 13.1 (Financial resources), Standard 13.3 (Financial responsibility) and Standard 13.4 (Control of finances) of the Principles of Accreditation.

Has B-CU lost its accreditation?
Absolutely Not! B-CU continues to be accredited. The University’s Board of Trustees, faculty, staff and administration, with the support of The United Methodist Church, alumni, and friends, are fully committed and prepared to implement all of the necessary corrective actions to satisfactorily address the areas of concern.

Does the Probation status decision affect students’ financial aid?
No, the probation status does not affect B-CU’s student financial aid. The University remains accredited by SACSCOC. B-CU is still recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) in the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs to offer and award federal financial aid to eligible students.

How will a potential graduate school view this Probation by SACSCOC in determining whether a B-CU graduate is accepted?
B-CU students will still be graduates of an accredited institution. The SACSCOC Probation did not arise from concerns about the quality of B-CU’s academic programs. The University’s graduates will continue to be highly competitive for admission to graduate programs.

How long will the probation period last?
The maximum consecutive time that an institution may be on Probation is two years. The SACSCOC decision about the probation status will be released at the June 2019 meeting of the SACSCOC Board of Trustees.

What actions has B-CU taken and what else must it do to ensure uninterrupted accreditation?
B-CU has been proactive in identifying and addressing concerns in a manner that demonstrates continuous improvement. The initial issues that prompted the SACSCOC third party unsolicited inquiry were addressed last year. The University has made significant progress in correcting findings already identified, and made procedural changes to address issues related to integrity, board governance, financial resources, stability and controls. B-CU has prepared for submission a First Monitoring Report with extensive documentation prior to an on-site campus visit of a Special Committee in Spring 2019. The University is confident that it will have addressed the areas of concern and that B-CU’s accreditation will continue uninterrupted.

What can alumni and supporters do to support the University during this period?
The most important thing that you can do for B-CU is to provide the accurate information to those in doubt; assist us in implementing the plans for improvement that are in place; and continue to invest in the next generation of young scholars who will matriculate on our historic campus as they prepare to “Depart to Serve.”

For more information about B-CU and to invest in its bright future, contact the Division of Institutional Advancement, 386-481-2900.

Click here to view the B-CU SACSCOC Probation Fact Sheet (PDF)