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(1)Documents. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Section II. CORE REQUIREMENTS For every Core Requirement mandating a policy or procedure, it is implicit that the policy or procedure is in writing, approved through appropriate institutional processes, published in appropriate institutional documents accessible to those affected by the policy or procedure, and implemented and enforced by the institution. For obtaining or maintaining accreditation with the Commission on Colleges, an institution must meet the following Core Requirements: 1.. The institution has degree-granting authority from the appropriate government agency or agencies.. 2.. The institution has a governing board of at least five members that is the legal body with specific authority over the institution. The board is an active policy-making body for the institution and is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the financial resources of the institution are adequate to provide a sound educational program. The board is not controlled by a minority of board members or by organizations or interests separate from it. Neither the presiding officer of the board nor the majority of other voting members of the board have contractual, employment, or personal or familial financial interest in the institution. A military institution authorized and operated by the federal government to award degrees has a public board in which neither the presiding officer nor a majority of the other members are civilian employees of the military or active/retired military. The board has broad and significant influence upon the institution’s programs and operations, plays an active role in policy-making, and ensures that the financial resources of the institution are used to provide a sound educational program. The board is not controlled by a minority of board members or by organizations or interests separate from the board except as specified by the authorizing legislation. Neither the presiding officer of the board nor the majority of other voting board members have contractual, employment, or personal or familial financial interest in the institution.. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/index.htm (1 of 11) [8/7/2003 2:21:18 PM].

(2) Documents. 3.. The institution has a chief executive officer whose primary responsibility is to the institution and who is not the presiding officer of the board.. 4.. The institution has a clearly defined and published mission statement specific to the institution and appropriate to an institution of higher education, addressing teaching and learning and, where applicable, research and public service.. 5.. The institution engages in ongoing, integrated, and institution-wide research-based planning and evaluation processes that incorporate a systematic review of programs and services that (a) results in continuing improvement and (b) demonstrates that the institution is effectively accomplishing its mission.. 6.. The institution is in operation and has students enrolled in degree programs.. 7.. The institution a. offers one or more degree programs based on at least 60 semester credit hours or the equivalent at the associate level; at least 120 semester credit hours or the equivalent at the baccalaureate level; or at least 30 semester credit hours or the equivalent at the postbaccalaureate, graduate, or professional level. The institution provides a written justification and rationale for program equivalency. b. offers degree programs that embody a coherent course of study that is compatible with its stated purpose and is based upon fields of study appropriate to higher education. c. offers a general education program at the collegiate level that is (1) a substantial component of each undergraduate degree, (2) ensures breadth of knowledge, and (3) is based on a coherent rationale. For degree completion in associate programs, the component constitutes a minimum of 15 semester hours or the equivalent; for baccalaureate programs, a minimum of 30 semester hours or the equivalent. These credit hours are to be drawn from and include at least one course from each of the following areas: humanities/fine arts; social/behavioral sciences; and natural science/mathematics. The courses do not narrowly focus on those skills, techniques, and procedures specific to a particular occupation or profession. The institution provides a written justification and rationale for course equivalency.. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/index.htm (2 of 11) [8/7/2003 2:21:18 PM].

(3) Documents. d. makes arrangements for some instruction to be provided by other accredited institutions or entities through contracts or consortia, where appropriate. The institution itself, however, provides instruction for all course work required for at least one degree program at each level at which it awards degrees, or provides an alternative approach to meeting this requirement. The alternative approach is approved by the Commission on Colleges. In all cases, the institution demonstrates that it controls all aspects of its educational program.. 8.. The number of full-time faculty members is adequate to support the mission of the institution. The institution has adequate faculty resources to ensure the quality and integrity of its academic programs. In addition, upon application for candidacy, an applicant institution demonstrates that it meets the comprehensive standard for faculty qualifications.. 9.. The institution, through ownership or formal arrangements or agreements, provides and supports student and faculty access and user privileges to adequate library collections as well as to other learning/information resources consistent with the degrees offered. These collections and resources are sufficient to support all its educational, research, and public service programs.. 10.. The institution provides student support programs, services, and activities consistent with its mission that promote student learning and enhance the development of its students.. 11.. The institution has a sound financial base and demonstrated financial stability, and adequate physical resources to support the mission of the institution and the scope of its programs and services. The institution provides the following financial statements: (a) an institutional audit (as distinct from a systemwide or statewide audit) and management letter for the most recent fiscal year prepared by an independent certified public accountant or an appropriate auditing agency employing the appropriate audit guide; (b) an annual budget that is preceded by sound planning, is subject to sound fiscal procedures, and is approved by the governing board; and (c) a schedule of changes in unrestricted net assets, excluding plant and plant related-debt (short and long-term debt attached to physical assets).. 12. The institution has developed an acceptable Quality Enhancement Plan and demonstrates the plan is part of an ongoing planning and evaluation process.. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/index.htm (3 of 11) [8/7/2003 2:21:18 PM].

(4) Documents. Section III. COMPREHENSIVE STANDARDS For every Comprehensive Standard mandating a policy or procedure, it is implicit that the policy or procedure is in writing, approved through appropriate institutional processes, published in appropriate institutional documents accessible to those affected by the policy or procedure, and implemented and enforced by the institution. For obtaining or maintaining accreditation with the Commission on Colleges, an institution must meet the following Comprehensive Standards: Institutional Mission, Governance, And Effectiveness Institutional Mission 1.. The institution has a clear and comprehensive mission statement that guides it; is approved by the governing board; is periodically reviewed by the board; and is communicated to the institution’s constituencies.. Governance and Administration 2.. The governing board of the institution is responsible for the selection and the evaluation of the chief executive officer.. 3.. The legal authority and operating control of the institution are clearly defined for the following areas within the institution’s governance structure: a. the institution’s mission; b. the fiscal stability of the institution; c. institutional policy, including policies concerning related and affiliated corporate entities and all auxiliary services; d. related foundations (athletic, research, etc.) and other corporate entities whose primary purpose is to support the institution and/or its programs.. 4.. The board has a policy addressing conflict of interest.. 5.. The governing board is free from undue influence from political, religious, or other external bodies, and protects the institution from such influence.. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/index.htm (4 of 11) [8/7/2003 2:21:18 PM].

(5) Documents. 6.. Members of the governing board can be dismissed only for cause and by due process.. 7.. There is a clear and appropriate distinction, in writing and practice, between the policymaking functions of the governing board and the responsibility of the administration and faculty to administer and implement policy.. 8.. The institution has a clearly defined and published organizational structure that delineates responsibility for the administration of policies.. 9.. The institution has qualified administrative and academic officers with the experience, competence, and capacity to lead the institution.. 10.. The institution defines and publishes policies regarding appointment and employment of faculty and staff.. 11.. The institution evaluates the effectiveness of its administrators, including the chief executive officer, on a periodic basis.. 12.. The institution’s chief executive officer has ultimate responsibility for, and exercises appropriate administrative and fiscal control over, the institution’s intercollegiate athletics program.. 13.. The institution’s chief executive officer has ultimate control of the institution’s fund-raising activities.. 14.. An institution-related foundation, not controlled by the institution, has a contractual or other formal agreement that (a) accurately describes the relationship between the institution and the foundation, and (b) describes any liability associated with that relationship. In all cases, the institution ensures that the relationship is consistent with its mission.. 15.. The institution’s policies are clear concerning ownership of materials, compensation, copyright issues, and the use of revenue derived from the creation and production of all intellectual property. This applies to students, faculty and staff.. Institutional Effectiveness 16.. The institution identifies expected outcomes for its educational programs and its administrative and educational support services; assesses whether it achieves these outcomes; and provides evidence of improvement based on analysis of those results.. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/index.htm (5 of 11) [8/7/2003 2:21:18 PM].

(6) Documents. PROGRAMS Educational Programs Standards for All Educational Programs (Includes all on-campus, off-campus, and distance learning programs.). 1.. The institution demonstrates that each educational program for which academic credit is awarded is (a) is approved by the faculty and the administration, and (b) establishes and evaluates program and learning outcomes.. 2.. The institution’s continuing education, outreach, and service programs are consistent with the institution’s mission.. 3.. The institution publishes admissions policies consistent with its mission.. 4.. The institution has a defined and published policy for evaluating, awarding, and accepting credit for transfer, experiential learning, advanced placement, and professional certificates that is consistent with its mission and ensures that course work and learning outcomes are at the collegiate level and comparable to the institution’s own degree programs. The institution assumes responsibility for the academic quality of any course work or credit recorded on the institution’s transcript.. 5.. The institution publishes academic policies that adhere to principles of good educational practice. These are disseminated to students, faculty, and other interested parties through publications that accurately represent the programs and services of the institution.. 6.. The institution employs sound and acceptable practices for determining the amount and level of credit awarded for courses, regardless of format or mode of delivery.. 7.. The institution ensures the quality of educational programs/courses offered through consortia relationships or contractual agreements, ensures ongoing compliance with the comprehensive requirements, and evaluates the agreement against the purpose of the institution.. 8.. The institution awards academic credit for course work taken on a noncredit basis only when there is documentation that the noncredit course work is equivalent to a designated credit experience.. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/index.htm (6 of 11) [8/7/2003 2:21:18 PM].

(7) Documents. 9.. The institution provides appropriate academic support services.. 10.. The institution defines and publishes general education and major program requirements for all its programs. These requirements conform to commonly accepted standards and practices for undergraduate programs as well as graduate and post-baccalaureate professional degree programs.. 11.. The institution protects the security, confidentiality, and integrity of its student academic records and maintains special security measures to protect and back up data.. 12.. The institution places primary responsibility for the content, quality, and effectiveness of its curriculum with its faculty.. 13.. For each major in a degree program, the institution assigns responsibility for program coordination, as well as for curriculum development and review, to persons academically qualified in the field. In those degree programs for which the institution does not identify a major, this requirement applies to a curricular area or concentration.. 14.. The institution’s use of technology enhances student learning, is appropriate for meeting the objectives of its programs, and ensures that students have access to and training in the use of technology.. Standards Specific to Undergraduate Programs 15.. The institution identifies competencies within the general education core and provides evidence that graduates have attained those collegelevel competencies.. 16.. The institution awards degrees only to those students who have earned at least 25 percent of the credit hours required for the degree through instruction offered by that institution.. Standards Specific to Graduate and Post-Baccalaureate Professional Programs 17.. The institution’s post-baccalaureate professional degree programs, and its master’s and doctoral degree programs are progressively more advanced in academic content than undergraduate programs.. 18.. The institution ensures that its graduate instruction and resources foster independent learning, enabling the graduate to contribute to a profession or field of study.. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/index.htm (7 of 11) [8/7/2003 2:21:19 PM].

(8) Documents. 19.. The majority of credits toward a graduate or a post-baccalaureate professional degree is earned through the institution awarding the degree. In the case of graduate and postbaccalaureate professional degree programs offered through joint, cooperative, or consortia arrangements, the student earns a majority of credits from the participating institutions.. 20.. The institution employs competent faculty members qualified to accomplish the mission and goals of the institution. When determining acceptable qualifications of its faculty, an institution gives primary consideration to the highest earned degree in the discipline in accord with the guidelines listed below. The institution also considers competence, effectiveness, and capacity, including, as appropriate, undergraduate and graduate degrees, related work experiences in the field, professional licensure and certifications, honors and awards, continuous documented excellence in teaching, or other demonstrated competencies and achievements that contribute to effective teaching and student learning outcomes. For all cases, the institution is responsible for justifying and documenting the qualifications of all its faculty.. Faculty. Credential Guidelines: a. Faculty teaching general education courses at the undergraduate level: a doctoral or a master’s degree in the teaching discipline or a master’s degree with a concentration in the teaching discipline (a minimum of 18 graduate semester hours in the teaching discipline). b. Faculty teaching associate degree courses designed for transfer to a baccalaureate degree: a doctoral or a master’s degree in the teaching discipline or a master’s degree with a concentration in the teaching discipline (a minimum of 18 graduate semester hours in the teaching discipline). c. Faculty teaching associate degree courses not designed for transfer to the baccalaureate degree: a baccalaureate degree in the teaching discipline, or an associate degree and demonstrated competencies in the teaching discipline.. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/index.htm (8 of 11) [8/7/2003 2:21:19 PM].

(9) Documents. d. Faculty teaching baccalaureate degree courses: a doctoral or a master’s degree in the teaching discipline or a master’s degree with a concentration in the teaching discipline (minimum of 18 graduate semester hours in the teaching discipline). At least 25 percent of the discipline course hours in each undergraduate major are taught by faculty members holding the terminal degree–usually the earned doctorate--in the discipline. e. Faculty teaching graduate and post-baccalaureate course work: earned doctorate/ terminal degree in the teaching discipline or a related discipline. f. Graduate teaching assistants: master’s in the teaching discipline or 18 graduate semester hours in the teaching discipline, direct supervision by a faculty member experienced in the teaching discipline, regular in-service training, and planned and periodic evaluations. 21.. The institution regularly evaluates the effectiveness of each faculty member in accord with published criteria, regardless of contractual or tenured status.. 22.. The institution provides evidence of ongoing professional development of faculty as teachers, scholars, and practitioners.. 23.. The institution ensures adequate procedures for the safeguard and protection of academic freedom.. 24.. The institution publishes policies on the responsibility and authority of faculty in academic and governance matters.. Library and Other Learning Resources 25.. The institution provides facilities, services, and other learning/information resources that are appropriate to support its teaching, research, and service mission.. 26.. The institution ensures that users have access to regular and timely instruction in the use of the library and other learning/information resources.. 27.. The institution provides a sufficient number of qualified staff--with appropriate education or experiences both in library or other learning/information resources–to accomplish the mission of the institution.. Student Affairs and Services. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/index.htm (9 of 11) [8/7/2003 2:21:19 PM].

(10) Documents. 28.. The institution publishes a clear and appropriate statement of student rights and responsibilities and disseminates the statement to the campus community.. 29.. The institution protects the security, confidentiality, and integrity of its student records.. 30.. The institution provides services supporting its mission with qualified personnel to ensure the quality and effectiveness of its student affairs programs. RESOURCES. Financial and Physical Resources 1.. The institution’s recent financial history demonstrates financial stability.. 2.. The institution provides financial statements and related documents, including multiple measures for determining financial health as requested by the Commission, which accurately and appropriately represent the total operation of the institution.. 3.. The institution audits financial aid programs as required by federal and state regulations.. 4.. The institution exercises appropriate control over all its financial and physical resources.. 5.. The institution maintains financial control over externally funded or sponsored research and programs.. 6.. The institution takes reasonable steps to provide a healthy, safe, and secure environment for all members of the campus community.. 7.. The institution operates and maintains physical facilities, both on and off campus, that are adequate to serve the needs of the institution’s educational programs, support services, and mission-related activities. Section IV. FEDERAL MANDATES. In addition to the Core Requirements and Comprehensive Standards outlined above that have incorporated some of the requirements mandated by the 1998 Higher Education Amendments and its attending regulations, institutions also are responsible for complying with the following requirements that are more specifically stated in federal laws. Compliance will be considered when the institution is reviewed for initial membership and for continued accreditation.. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/index.htm (10 of 11) [8/7/2003 2:21:19 PM].

(11) Documents. 1.. When evaluating success with respect to student achievement in relation to the institution’s mission, the institution includes, as appropriate, consideration of course completion, state licensing examinations, and job placement rates.. 2.. The institution maintains a curriculum that is directly related and appropriate to the purpose and goals of the institution and the diplomas, certificates or degrees awarded.. 3.. The institution makes available to students and the public current academic calendars, grading policies, and refund policies.. 4.. The institution demonstrates that program length is appropriate for each of the degrees offered.. 5.. The institution has adequate procedures for addressing written student complaints and is responsible for demonstrating that it follows those procedures when resolving student complaints. (See Commission policy “The Review of Complaints Involving the Commission or its Accredited Institutions.”). 6.. Recruitment materials and presentations accurately represent the institution’s practices and policies.. 7.. The institution publishes the name of its primary accreditor and its address and phone number. (The publication of this information is presented so that it is clear that inquiries to the Commission should relate only to the accreditation status of the institution, and not to general admission information.). 8.. The institution is in compliance with its program responsibilities under Title IV of the 1998 Higher Education Amendments. (In reviewing the institution’s compliance with these program responsibilities, the Commission relies on documentation forwarded to it by the Secretary of Education.)(Applies only to those institutions receiving Title IV funding.). http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/index.htm (11 of 11) [8/7/2003 2:21:19 PM].

(12) 1. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Compliance Audit Reports. Section II: Core Requirements Core Requirement 1. The institution has degree-granting authority from the appropriate government agency or agencies. JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Yes, DSU is in compliance. RATIONALE FOR JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE The Board of Trustees of the State Institutions of Higher Learning grants authority to Delta State University to award degrees (IHL Policies and Bylaws, Section 504.01). DOCUMENTATION Source IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 504.01. Location http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=71. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/1.htm [8/7/2003 2:22:03 PM].

(13) 2. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Compliance Audit Reports. Section II: Core Requirements Core Requirement 2. The institution has a governing board of at least five members that is the legal body with specific authority over the institution. The board is an active policy-making body for the institution and is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the financial resources of the institution are adequate to provide a sound educational program. The board is not controlled by a minority of board members or by organizations or interests separate from it. Neither the presiding officer of the board nor the majority of other voting members of the board have contractual, employment, or personal or familial financial interest in the institution. A military institution authorized and operated by the federal government to award degrees has a public board in which neither the presiding officer nor a majority of the other members are civilian employees of the military or active/retired military. The board has broad and significant influence upon the institution’s programs and operations, plays an active role in policy-making, and ensures that the financial resources of the institution are used to provide a sound educational program. The board is not controlled by a minority of board members or by organizations or interests separate from the board except as specified by the authorizing legislation. Neither the presiding officer of the board nor the majority of other voting board members have contractual, employment, or personal or familial financial interest in the institution. JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Yes, DSU is in compliance. RATIONALE FOR JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/2.htm (1 of 3) [8/7/2003 2:22:15 PM].

(14) 2. Under the Mississippi Constitution, Delta State University is one of the eight institutions governed by the Board of Trustees, Institutions of Higher Learning, State of Mississippi (Miss. Const. Art VIII, Section 213A). The Board has the responsibility for the management and control of the universities, which includes selecting the president of the institution and contracting with faculty and staff (IHL Policies and Bylaws, Sections 102.02, 201.0605, 201.0610, 401.01). The Board has the responsibility of operating a coordinated system of higher education, establishing prudent governance policies, employing capable chief executives, and requiring legal, fiscal, and programmatic accountability; the Board also reports annually to the state Legislature and the citizens of the state on the needs and accomplishments of the IHL System (Section 101.01). The constitutional organization of the Board is covered in the many regulations outlined in IHL Policies and Bylaws, Section 201. The Board, appointed by the Governor(s), consists of twelve members who are appointed for twelve-year terms. The terms are staggered so that during each four-year gubernatorial term the current Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate, appoints four Board members. The Policies and Bylaws of the Board specify expiration dates for the terms of Board members. The composition of the board includes ●. one member from each congressional district of the state existing as of March 31, 1944,. ●. one member from each Supreme Court district, and. ●. two members appointed from the state at large (IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 201).. Members of the IHL Board are considered public officers and are subject to the restrictions on contractual, employment, and personal or familial financial interest in the institutions; Mississippi law prohibits public officers from any involvement, directly or indirectly, in any contract authorized by any board of which they are members during the term on the board or within one year after leaving the board (Section 301.04). DOCUMENTATION Source. Location. Miss. Const. Art VIII, Section 213-A. http://www.sos.state.ms.us/pubs/constitution/constitution.asp. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 102.02. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=14. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 201.0605. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=24. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 201.0610. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=31. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 401.01. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=47. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 101.01. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=13. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/2.htm (2 of 3) [8/7/2003 2:22:15 PM].

(15) 2. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 201. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=17. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 301.04. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=34. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/2.htm (3 of 3) [8/7/2003 2:22:15 PM].

(16) 3. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Compliance Audit Reports. Section II: Core Requirements Core Requirement 3. The institution has a chief executive officer whose primary responsibility is to the institution and who is not the presiding officer of the board. JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Yes, DSU is in compliance. RATIONALE FOR JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE The chief executive officer of Delta State University is the President, whose primary responsibility is to the University. The IHL Board of Trustees elects the institutional executive officers (IHL Policies and Bylaws, Sections 201.0610, 301.04). The institutional executive officer of the University is responsible for the operation and management of the university; these responsibilities include the administration of the divisions and departments of the institution, selection and recommendation for election by the Board of all employees and faculty members for the institution, and taking the initiative in shaping the educational policy and academic standards of the institution (Section 301.0801). The constitutional organization of the Board, including the appointment of members by the sitting governor, is covered in SACS Core Requirement #2. The presiding officer of the Board is elected by the Board from its membership, with the term of office one year (IHL Policies and Bylaws, Section 301.01) DOCUMENTATION Source. Location. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 201.0610. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=31. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 301.04. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=35. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 301.0801. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=43. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/3.htm (1 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:22:22 PM].

(17) 3. SACS Core Requirement #2. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/2.htm. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 301.01. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=33. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/3.htm (2 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:22:22 PM].

(18) 4. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Compliance Audit Reports. Section II: Core Requirements Core Requirement 4. The institution has a clearly defined and published mission statement specific to the institution and appropriate to an institution of higher education, addressing teaching and learning and, where applicable, research and public service. JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Yes, DSU is in compliance. RATIONALE FOR JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE. Delta State University’s mission statement, specific to DSU, is clear and comprehensive. It reflects both the institution's origin as a teachers' college and its role as a regional university in serving as the educational and cultural center of the Mississippi Delta. The mission statement is reviewed annually and may be modified with prior approval of the Board of Trustees of the State Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 102.04). It was last revised and approved by the Board on February 19, 1998; the statement is published in the University undergraduate and graduate bulletins and various other publications of the University (Bulletin, p. 11; Graduate Bulletin, p. 15; 2001-2002 Factbook). Since DSU is primarily a teaching institution, its priorities are effective teaching and creating an environment where teaching and learning are nurtured: "Emphasis is placed on excellence in instruction . . . in the creation of a community of scholars" (Bulletin, p. 11). According to DSU Policies and Procedures for Promotion, qualities considered necessary for effective teaching include the following: "high academic standards, concern for learning, a thorough knowledge of the subject, good organization of subject matter and course syllabi, incorporation of research in instructional settings, excellent communication skills, respect toward students, fairness in examinations and grading, and willingness to experiment with new teaching methods." DSU's mission statement also addresses research and public service: "Emphasis is placed on excellence in instruction, followed by service and research" (Bulletin, p. 11). According to DSU promotion policy, "the service component is based on performance in three areas: service to the faculty member's academic profession, service to the University, and public service to the community which is related to the faculty member's academic discipline"; scholarship includes any advancement of the profession or discipline through research, publications, presentations, development of new methodologies, grants that support scholarly and creative activity, and honors or awards (DSU Policies and Procedures for Promotion).. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/4.htm (1 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:22:29 PM].

(19) 4. DOCUMENTATION Source. Location. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 102.04. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=15. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 11. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=9. DSU Graduate Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 15. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/grcat.pdf#page=13. 2001-2002 Factbook, Institutional Mission statement. http://irp.deltastate.edu/dsufactbook.pdf#page=9. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 11. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=9. DSU Policies and Procedures for Promotion for Teaching Faculty. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/tenure.pdf. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 11. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=9. DSU Policies and Procedures for Promotion for Teaching Faculty. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/tenure.pdf. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/4.htm (2 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:22:29 PM].

(20) 5. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Compliance Audit Reports. Section II: Core Requirements Core Requirement 5. The institution engages in ongoing, integrated, and institution-wide research-based planning and evaluation processes that incorporate a systematic review of programs and services that (a) results in continuing improvement and (b) demonstrates that the institution is effectively accomplishing its mission. JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Yes, DSU is in compliance. RATIONALE FOR JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Planning and Evaluation Delta State University engages in institution-wide planning and evaluation processes designed to continuously study, analyze, appraise, and improve all of its programs and services. DSU has an Office of Institutional Research and Planning and a Chief Information and Planning Officer who is on the Cabinet and who is engaged in institution-wide research and planning to ensure DSU is meeting its mission effectively (Office of Institutional Research and Planning website). The DSU Mission is the foundation for all goals, objectives, and strategic plans at all levels of the University (Bulletin, p. 11). The DSU Strategic Plan 2001-2005 places goals, objectives, and desired results into a five-year planning cycle: in addition, specific performance indicators are identified so that results can be measured. Currently, DSU’s planning and evaluation processes are undergoing an evolutionary step that will further integrate planning, implementation, assessment, and reporting across the University. The Process Reengineering Steering Committee, formed in January 2003, is developing a Quality Control Program, a strategy to tie overall University process improvement to the institution’s core commitments. One goal of this process is to apply national "Baldrige" criteria and Mississippi Quality Award criteria to DSU’s strategic planning and implementation systems (websites). Periodic updates are being given to the Cabinet on this committee's interim recommendations, and full implementation of the Quality Control Program is expected by August 2005. Any program improvement initiatives based on the results of this effort will be integrated into future planning and budgeting cycles and reviewed for effectiveness on a periodic basis (Office of Process Reengineering Steering Committee, Performance Auditor's Report).. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/5.htm (1 of 3) [8/7/2003 2:22:40 PM].

(21) 5. The purpose of DSU is clearly stated in the University’s mission statement. In addition, each college and academic department has a mission statement with clearly defined objectives that have been created to complement and implement the University’s mission and vision. (See individual departmental listings in the Bulletin, p. 116.) The goals of the University, each of which is linked to the University's mission statement, serve as guidelines in establishing the effectiveness of programs and services (Bulletin, pp. 11-12). Educational goals written to be consistent with the overall goals of the University have been established for each program and major. Each academic unit and its chair annually review goals for consistency with University goals and also plan strategies for achieving the unit's stated goals. The results of this analysis are incorporated into the short- and long-range planning process. (See the Annual Reports of each college or school.) Systematic Review of Programs DSU’s evaluation of academic effectiveness begins at the departmental or divisional level. Each degree program is evaluated through the appropriate accrediting agency or through other means. All degree programs at DSU that can be evaluated by professional accrediting agencies are accredited through those agencies (IHL Management Report). These programs include art, chemistry, music, aviation, nursing, social work, family and consumer sciences, counseling, teacher education, and business (Factbook). Other programs which have no national professional standards of accreditation are evaluated in a variety of other ways to determine that they are appropriate, up-to-date, and adequate for the preparation of students for careers. Means of evaluation of the nonaccredited programs include comparison with peer institutions, contact with professional associations, and responses from alumni who are successful in their careers (Bulletin, pp. 2, 116). Each academic unit also determines further specific assessments required to measure achievement of its goals and objectives. Students periodically evaluate faculty and courses, and the faculty respond in writing to their respective chairs, outlining plans for continued improvement based on these evaluations. In addition, information is gathered from alumni surveys, graduating senior surveys, and employer surveys. These data are also analyzed and used to determine progress and to provide the basis for new improvement strategies. Where appropriate, national or peer comparison data is used to set standards for the analysis of achievement or improvement. Unit goals, assessment plans and results, and improvement reports are considered in the annual budget process. The intent is to connect the budget requests to assessment results. (See Annual Reports of each college and school, and individual course evaluations.) Each college and school's annual report contains indicators from the constituent departments concerning the achievement of goals associated with the mission of the department and the University. Additionally, all teacher education programs have "an assessment system that collects and analyzes data on the applicant qualifications, the candidate and graduate performance, and unit operations to evaluate and improve the unit and its programs" (NCATE Standard 2). Documentation of the effectiveness of programs and improvement is also presented in SACS Comprehensive Standards, Institutional Effectiveness #16 and in SACS Comprehensive Standards, Programs #1.. DOCUMENTATION http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/5.htm (2 of 3) [8/7/2003 2:22:40 PM].

(22) 5. Source. Location. Office of Institutional Research and Planning website. http://irp.deltastate.edu. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 11. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=9. DSU Strategic Plan 2001-2005. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/splan.pdf. Malcolm Baldrige criteria. http://www.tata.com/0_group/quality/malcolm_baldrige_award.htm.. Mississippi Quality Award criteria. http://www.sbcjc.cc.ms.us/quality.htm. Process Reengineering Steering Committee, Performance Auditor's Report. location.asp. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 116. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=114. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, pp. 11-12. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=9. College of Arts and Sciences Annual Report of Effectiveness 2001-2002. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/art_sci_ar.pdf. College of Business Annual Report 2002-2003. location.asp. College of Education Annual Report 2001. location.asp. School of Nursing Annual Report 2001-http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/nursingfr.pdf 2002 IHL Management Report. location.asp. DSU Factbook 2001-02. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/irp/dsufactbook.pdf. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 2. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=2. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 116. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=114. Individual course evaluations by department. location.asp. NCATE Report. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/coe/st2.htm. SACS Comprehensive Standards, Institutional Effectiveness #16. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/36.htm. SACS Comprehensive Standards, Programs #1. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/37.htm. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/5.htm (3 of 3) [8/7/2003 2:22:40 PM].

(23) 6. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Compliance Audit Reports. Section II: Core Requirements Core Requirement 6. The institution is in operation and has students enrolled in degree programs. JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Yes, DSU is in compliance. RATIONALE FOR JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE On April 9, 1924, Governor Henry L. Whitfield signed Senate Bill Number 263, Chapter 284, creating Delta State Teachers College. The institution opened for its first regular session on September 15, 1925. At that time, there were eleven members of the faculty and staff and a student body of ninety-seven. In 1955, the name of the institution was changed to Delta State College reflecting the growth and expanding mission of the institution. On March 15, 1974, the name was changed to Delta State University, again to reflect the growth and expansion of the institutional mission (Bulletin 2002-2004, pp. 10-11). At its creation in 1925, Delta State was authorized to offer only the bachelor of science degree in education. Undergraduate degrees are now offered in the arts, sciences, humanities, business, nursing, commercial aviation, and education (Bulletin 2002-2004). In 1965, the University initiated a graduate program. DSU now offers master's degrees in the areas of business, commercial aviation, education, natural and social sciences, and nursing, as well as the educational specialist degree and doctor of education in professional studies (Graduate Bulletin 2002-2004). Since opening in 1925, the institution has been operating continuously with students enrolled in degree program (DSU Factbook). DOCUMENTATION Source. Location. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, pp. 10-11. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=8. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf. Graduate Bulletin 2002-2004. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/grcat.pdf. DSU 2001-2002 Factbook. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/irp/dsufactbook.pdf#page=8. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/6.htm (1 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:22:49 PM].

(24) 6. DSU 2001-2002 Factbook. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/irp/dsufactbook.pdf#page=28. DSU 2001-2002 Factbook. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/irp/dsufactbook.pdf#page=53. DSU 2001-2002 Factbook. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/irp/dsufactbook.pdf#page=69. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/6.htm (2 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:22:49 PM].

(25) 8. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Compliance Audit Reports. Section II: Core Requirements Core Requirement 7-a. The institution offers one or more degree programs based on at least 60 semester credit hours or the equivalent at the associate level; at least 120 semester credit hours or the equivalent at the baccalaureate level; or at least 30 semester credit hours or the equivalent at the post-baccalaureate, graduate, or professional level. The institution provides a written justification and rationale for program equivalency. JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Yes, DSU is in compliance. RATIONALE FOR JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Delta State University offers twelve baccalaureate degrees with forty-two undergraduate majors and eleven post-baccalaureate degrees (DSU Factbook). Delta State University's baccalaureate programs require a minimum of 128 semester credit hours (Bulletin, pp. 78-115). All post-baccalaureate degree programs require a minimum of 30 semester credit hours (Graduate Bulletin, p. 28). DOCUMENTATION Source. Location. 2001-2002 Factbook. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/irp/dsufactbook.pdf#page=69. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, pp. 78-115. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=76. DSU Graduate Bulletin, 2002-2004, p. 28. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/grcat.pdf#page=26. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/8.htm [8/7/2003 2:22:58 PM].

(26) 9. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Compliance Audit Reports. Section II: Core Requirements Core Requirement 7-b. The institution offers degree programs that embody a coherent course of study that is compatible with its stated purpose and is based upon fields of study appropriate to higher education. JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Yes, DSU is in compliance. RATIONALE FOR JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Delta State University’s degree program requirements, including courses of study and the sequencing thereof, conform to commonly accepted standards for collegiate institutions, and all DSU baccalaureate programs require the general education curriculum. (See individual degree programs in the DSU undergraduate and graduate bulletins). All degree programs at DSU are consistent with the stated purposes of the institution and are appropriate to higher education (IHL Guide to Higher Education in Mississippi). DSU faculty and administration are responsible for determining the courses of study and the sequencing of these courses (SACS Comprehensive Standards, Programs #1a and #12). The coherency of the course of study required by DSU's degree programs is ensured by the appropriate sequencing of courses, determined by a numbering system. Courses that are numbered as 100-299 are considered to be lower division, whereas courses that are numbered as 300-499 are upper division. Graduate courses are numbered as 500-899. Teaching assignments are based on faculty assessment in the discipline (Faculty Handbook). The courses that are designated as 400 level with counterparts of 500 level are designed for undergraduate as well as graduate students; however, graduate students enrolled in such classes are expected to complete requirements beyond those for undergraduates (Bulletin, p. 72; Graduate Bulletin, p. 28) DOCUMENTATION Source DSU Bulletin 2002-2004. Location http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=76. DSU Graduate Bulletin 2002-2004 http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/grcat.pdf#page=31 IHL Guide to Higher Education in Mississippi. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/research/guid01.pdf#page=3. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/9.htm (1 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:23:13 PM].

(27) 9. SACS Comprehensive Standards, http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/37.htm Programs #1a SACS Comprehensive Standards, http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/48.htm Programs #12 Faculty and Staff Handbook, p. 21 http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/staffhandbook.pdf#page=26 DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 72. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=70. DSU Graduate Bulletin 20022004, p. 28. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/grcat.pdf#page=26. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/9.htm (2 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:23:13 PM].

(28) 10. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Compliance Audit Reports. Section II: Core Requirements Core Requirement 7-c. The institution offers a general education program at the collegiate level that is (1) a substantial component of each undergraduate degree, (2) ensures breadth of knowledge, and (3) is based on a coherent rationale. For degree completion in associate programs, the component constitutes a minimum of 15 semester hours or the equivalent; for baccalaureate programs, a minimum of 30 semester hours or the equivalent. These credit hours are to be drawn from and include at least one course from each of the following areas: humanities/fine arts; social/behavioral sciences; and natural science/mathematics. The courses do not narrowly focus on those skills, techniques, and procedures specific to a particular occupation or profession. The institution provides a written justification and rationale for course equivalency. JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Yes, DSU is in compliance. RATIONALE FOR JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE In order to complete the requirements for any baccalaureate degree at Delta State University, students must earn a minimum of 128 semester credit hours, which includes a minimum of 44 semester hours of general education courses. (See individual degree programs in the DSU Bulletin, p. 78). The DSU general education requirement consists of 44-46 semester hours, which includes at least one course in fine arts (art, music, or theater), two courses in literature and two in history, one course in social/behavioral science (economics, political science, or philosophy), one course in general psychology, one course in college mathematics, and two courses in laboratory science (chemistry, biology, or physics). Additionally, at least one course in English composition (usually two), one course in speech, and two physical education courses are required of all students. These courses are designed to serve the purposes of general education; they are not narrowly focused but have broad usefulness to students (Bulletin, p. 13). The rationale and purposes for the general education program are consistent with the University’s mission and are clearly stated in the Bulletin: "General education is the foundation that supports success at Delta State University and prepares the student for professional careers and lifelong learning and service" (DSU Bulletin, p. 13). SACS Core Requirement #7a details the program. equivalency policy at DSU. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/10.htm (1 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:23:23 PM].

(29) 10. DOCUMENTATION Source. Location. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 78. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=76. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 13. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=11. SACS Core Requirement #7a. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/8.htm. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/10.htm (2 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:23:23 PM].

(30) 11. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Compliance Audit Reports. Section II: Core Requirements Core Requirement 7-d. The institution makes arrangements for some instruction to be provided by other accredited institutions or entities through contracts or consortia, where appropriate. The institution itself, however, provides instruction for all course work required for at least one degree program at each level at which it awards degrees, or provides an alternative approach to meeting this requirement. The alternative approach is approved by the Commission on Colleges. In all cases, the institution demonstrates that it controls all aspects of its educational program. JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Yes, DSU is in compliance. RATIONALE FOR JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Delta State University has no arrangement for instruction to be provided by other accredited institutions through consortia since DSU provides instruction for all course work required for degree programs at each level at which it awards degrees: bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist, and doctor of education (Bulletin, p. 78; Graduate Bulletin, p. 33). DSU, under the direction of the institutional executive officer, controls all aspects of its educational program in accordance with the policies of the IHL Board (IHL Policies and Bylaws, Sections 201.0605, 301.0801; Faculty and Staff Handbook, p. 1). The IHL Board has oversight of governance of DSU as well as all other public institutions of higher learning in the state of Mississippi (IHL Policies and Bylaws, Section 102.02; SACS Core Requirement #2). The IHL Board assumes responsibility for the establishment of new programs as well as the review of existing programs (IHL Policies and Bylaws, Sections 102.05, 501; IHL Guide to Higher Education in Mississippi). DOCUMENTATION Source DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 78. Location http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=76. DSU Graduate Bulletin, p. 33. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/grcat.pdf#page=31. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 201.0605 http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=25 IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 301.0801 http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=43 DSU Faculty and Staff Handbook, p.1. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/staffhandbook.pdf#page=6. IHL, Policies and Bylaws, Section 102.02. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=14. SACS Core Requirement #2. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/2.htm. IHL Policies and Bylaws, Section 102.05. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=15. IHL Policies and Bylaws, Section 501. http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/admin/downloads/policiesandbylaws.pdf#page=67. IHL Guide to Higher Education in Mississippi http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/research/guid01.pdf#page=3. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/11.htm (1 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:23:36 PM].

(31) 11. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/11.htm (2 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:23:36 PM].

(32) 12. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Compliance Audit Reports. Section II: Core Requirements Core Requirement 8. The number of full-time faculty members is adequate to support the mission of the institution. The institution has adequate faculty resources to ensure the quality and integrity of its academic programs. In addition, upon application for candidacy, an applicant institution demonstrates that it meets the comprehensive standard for faculty qualifications. JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Yes, DSU is in compliance. RATIONALE FOR JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Delta State University has an adequate number of faculty and adequate resources to ensure the quality and integrity of its academic programs. According to its mission statement, DSU places emphasis on excellence in instruction followed by service and research. Special attention to small class size is identified in the mission statement as a characteristic of DSU (Bulletin, p. 11). Hiring practices and tenure and promotion decisions are based on accomplishments in teaching, scholarship, and service as well as on the appropriate academic background (Faculty and Staff Handbook, p. 9; Policies and Procedures for Promotion for Teaching Faculty). Detailed lists of faculty by department are given in the DSU Factbook. Evidence that DSU's faculty meet the SACS comprehensive standard for faculty qualifications is presented in SACS Comprehensive Standards, Faculty #20. As reported to the IHL Board by the Office of Institutional Research, DSU had 169 full-time faculty members in the fall of 2002. The IHL has a target ratio of 1 to 18 for full-time faculty to FTE students by 2005. The number of faculty members is adequate for compliance according to the IHL Management Report as DSU currently has a ratio of 1 to 18, which is equivalent to the ratio for the system of institutions of higher learning in Mississippi, and below the Carnegie class peers ratio of 1 to 24. The average on-campus credit hours taught per full-time DSU faculty member in Fall 2001 was 207.2, which is below the Carnegie class peer average of 307 and the Mississippi average of 211.0. The IHL Board has established a target for DSU of 225 credit hours per full-time faculty member by 2004 (DSU Office of Institutional Research; IHL Management Report, January 2003; IHL Academic Productivity Review, July 2001). DSU has learning centers, including a productive writing center, that assist with the quality of teaching. A new http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/12.htm (1 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:24:00 PM].

(33) 12. Technology Learning Center was established on the second floor of Ewing Hall during the past academic year. Trained staff members offer courses on creating webpages and on using WebCt and assist faculty with PowerPoint presentations. Language, mathematics, and academic support labs provide tutoring to assist students in overcoming deficiencies. DSU is also in compliance with regard to helping faculty and staff attend workshops and programs that will enhance their teaching. The administration recognizes that good teaching is largely influenced by the ability of faculty to remain current in their disciplines. There is money set aside for faculty development, for travel to annual and state meetings, and for research. These faculty resources are addressed in detail in SACS Comprehensive Standards, Faculty #22.. DOCUMENTATION Source DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p.11. Location http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=9. DSU Faculty and Staff Handbook 1998, p. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/staffhandbook.pdf#page=14 9 DSU Policies and Procedures for Promotion for Teaching Faculty. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/tenure.pdf. 2001-2002 Factbook. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/irp/dsufactbook.pdf#page=4. SACS Comprehensive Standards, Faculty http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/56.htm #20 Office of Institutional Research. Kethley 202. IHL Management Report, January 2003. location.asp. IHL Academic Productivity Review, July 2001. location.asp. SACS Comprehensive Standards, Faculty http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/64.htm #22. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/12.htm (2 of 2) [8/7/2003 2:24:00 PM].

(34) 13. DSU Home. SACS Home. Reference Room. Compliance Audit. QEP. Contact. Compliance Audit Reports. Section II: Core Requirements Core Requirement 9. The institution, through ownership or formal arrangements or agreements, provides and supports student and faculty access and user privileges to adequate library collections as well as to other learning/information resources consistent with the degrees offered. These collections and resources are sufficient to support all its educational, research, and public service programs. JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE Yes, DSU is in compliance. RATIONALE FOR JUDGMENT OF COMPLIANCE. The support for, and adequacy of, library collections and other learning and information resources at Delta State University is consistent with DSU's degree programs and sufficient to fulfill DSU's mission (Bulletin, p. 11). The integration of technology and information resources into DSU's curricula, both in general education and across academic disciplines, ensures that these resources are consistent with and appropriate to DSU's degree programs. Library facilities and both the campus and library information infrastructure have been improved significantly in the past five years as a result of several capital improvement projects. Oncampus information resources continue to grow in both depth and breadth, while access to electronic resources has followed the pattern in the higher education environment and expanded extensively. Access to library and information resource instructional services continues to increase and is presently available as both stand-alone offerings and access that is integrated into disciplinary courses and programs of study. The following text provides documentation of the accessibility and adequacy of library holdings and of the learning and information resources provided and supported by DSU Library Services. DSU Library Services Library Services is an academic support unit that includes the Roberts-LaForge Library, the Instructional Resources Center, and the University Archives. Operating under the supervision of the Director of Library Services, these areas serve in a coordinated fashion the information and information-related instructional needs of the academic programs of Delta State University http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/13.htm (1 of 6) [8/7/2003 2:24:34 PM].

(35) 13. (DSU library website, About Library Services). In addition to providing information resources and services on the main campus, Library Services also provides access to information and instructional services through the Greenville Higher Education Center Library, and it reaches students located in other remote locations through a structured system of services and information resources (DSU library website, Distance Education Resources). Library Collections and Access to Information Resources The adequacy of DSU library collections, as well as access to other information resources, is evaluated as a component of accreditation reviews by external agencies such as NCATE or degree program reviews by external peer reviewers (DSU Self-Study, NCATE). In all but two cases these reviews have not prompted recommendations or findings concerning the adequacy of library resources. In one case it was recommended that the depth and breadth of resources relating to art be increased to better support the diverse course offerings by the DSU Art Department (DSU Self-Study, Art). In each of the subsequent years, with the exception of this year, DSU has exceeded the level of expenditures recommended by the accreditation reviewer and expanded the quality of art-related holdings significantly. In the other case, some aspects of the book holdings relating to nursing were judged to be not as current as they should be (DSU Self-Study, Nursing). To help address these accreditation concerns, a significant number of older volumes have been withdrawn from this subject area, and in the last two academic years the library has increased its allocation to nursing by $5,000. In order to ensure that library collections remain adequate in each discipline, library holdings are evaluated as part of the curriculum review process for all new and revised courses and degree programs at DSU. Every curriculum request includes a section that reports on required and recommended library resources. It is University and library practice to address the need for new course- and degree-related library resources by making special library acquisitions funds available to the appropriate academic department. These funds are used to acquire items identified and recommended by the faculty. In addition, the collection development team internal to the library designates these types of library resources as among their collection development priorities and devotes both staff time to identify specific needs and financial resources to acquire appropriate library resources. Throughout the second half of the 1990s, funding for library collections increased each year, which permitted the library to make significant progress in addressing identified needs. In addition, consortia and cooperative agreements with other libraries and library organizations such as MAGNOLIA and SOLINET have helped DSU to acquire resources at better prices and to provide access to and delivery of materials that the DSU libraries do not own. Library Services has reciprocal borrowing agreements with the other university libraries in the state (DSU Libraries, Reciprocal Borrowing) as well as with all the public libraries and community college libraries in northwest Mississippi. As of June 30, 2002, DSU libraries held or provided access to the following resources: ●. ●. 331,000+ volumes, 1,330 current periodicals, including regional, state, and national newspapers,. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/13.htm (2 of 6) [8/7/2003 2:24:34 PM].

(36) 13 ●. ●. back issues of journals and more than 2,000 inactive journal titles retained in the microform and bound journal collections, a selective United States Government Documents collection (DSU Libraries, Government Documents),. ●. a Mississippi State Government Documents collection,. ●. general and subject-specific indexes, in print and in electronic format,. ●. electronic access to more than 100 indexing and abstracting databases,. ●. ●. ●. ●. ●. ●. electronic access to full text for 5,185 journals and indexing and abstracting for 7,000+ journals (DSU Libraries, Electronic Journals), electronic access to resources through MAGNOLIA, Mississippi's state-wide resources-sharing project, over 27,000 electronic books or e-Books that are full text and fully searchable, 17,000+ audiovisual items in a variety of formats, including more than 3,700 videos, books and journal articles that are attainable through interlibrary loan from other institutions and documentary delivery services (DSU Libraries, Interlibrary Loan), the Library Services Website, which provides access to the library’s online catalog and links to resources available on the Internet (DSU Libraries, Catalog).. Student and faculty opinion, solicited via class surveys, academic department meetings, the Faculty Senate Library Committee, “How do we rate?” questionnaires, and exit surveys with graduates, provides additional evidence of the adequacy of resources and services offered by the DSU libraries. Library resources, library services, and library staff are overwhelmingly ranked as being good to excellent. Student surveys consistently rank Library Services as the most used general University program or service, with a quality rating that is usually the highest (DSU Graduation Questionnaire). This feedback and specific suggestions for additions to collections and improvements in services are seriously considered and promptly acted upon. On a typical day, DSU libraries serve between a quarter and a third of the DSU student population. This high use rate and increases in materials borrowing and database use provide some indication of the relevance of library collections and services to the needs of the DSU community (DSU Libraries, Annual Reports). Access and User Privileges Access and user privileges at DSU libraries are judged adequate because all DSU students, faculty, and staff have full http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/13.htm (3 of 6) [8/7/2003 2:24:34 PM].

(37) 13. access to the physical collections, facilities, and services at all locations. The Roberts-LaForge Library is open 81.5 hours per week, and reference and circulation services are provided during all open hours. The library recently completed a construction project that included a major addition to and complete renovation of the original 1969 structure. Library floor space now exceeds 91,000 square feet. Seating is available for approximately 850 users and includes 11 group study rooms as well as individual study carrels and table and lounge seating. The building is wired and equipped throughout for electronic access to an ever-increasing variety of databases and full-text journals. An electronic classroom is available for information literacy instruction and faculty use. Two open computer labs are accessible to users during the normal operating hours of the library. Separate research suites are available for faculty and doctoral students. In addition, the Instructional Resources Center, contained within the library, offers group viewing/listening rooms as well as individual carrels containing appropriate multimedia equipment (Library Addition and Renovation Project). The Charles W. Capps, Jr. Archives and Museum building serves DSU and the region as a depository for historical, political, social, and geographical documents and artifacts of importance to the Delta area and the state of Mississippi. These archives hold more than 400 volumes and 472 cubic feet of manuscript collections, which are available to the public during regular business hours (DSU Libraries, Annual Reports). Access to DSU library holdings and services is greatly enhanced because library catalogs, online resources, and holdings and services of component libraries and collections are available via the Web from both on-campus and offcampus locations. Library collections (including government documents, media, licensed databases, some microform items and some archival collections) are indexed in the library online catalog (Merlin) and available via the library website (Catalog). Specialized support for off-campus and distance education students is provided through the Greenville Higher Education Center Library and a structured system of services and information resources. General information regarding these services and resources is available at the library website (DSU Libraries, Distance Education Resources). Links to this information and these resources have also been incorporated into the WebCT software shell used by all DSU online, hybrid, and Web-enhanced courses. Each semester, all faculty members teaching off-campus and distance education courses are contacted and offered a range of library instructional services. DSU librarians are available to travel to off-campus class locations to provide informational and instructional services. All DSU students and faculty have library borrowing privileges and access to library reserve collections established by faculty (DSU Libraries, Circulation Services and Policies). Reference services follow the Guidelines for Information Services established by the Reference and User Services Association of the American Library Association (RUSA Guidelines). These guidelines provide a series of goals regarding information services and resources provided, access to those resources, personnel involved, evaluation of services, and ethics involved in providing information service. DSU Library Services follows these guidelines in the services that it provides to faculty and students (DSU Libraries, Reference Department). DSU Library Services embraces the Guidelines for Instruction Programs in Academic Libraries established by the Association of College and Research Libraries. These guidelines outline aspects of program design, including statement of purpose, content and modes of instruction, and evaluation; human resources; and support, including quality of instruction and work facilities, financial support, and support for continuing education (ACRL Guidelines). Instruction is provided through general orientation sessions, general and subjectspecific instruction integrated into class lectures in a wide range of disciplines, and through one-on-one interactions (DSU Libraries, Instruction Program). A new for-credit information literacy class was proposed last year as part of the DSU General Education requirement. It is anticipated that this course, which will focus on basic information literacy and critical thinking skills, will be available in the fall 2003 semester. All DSU students and faculty, regardless of their location, have access to interlibrary loan and document delivery services (DSU Libraries, Interlibrary Loan and Distance Education). In addition, specialized resources and services related to K-12 education, as well as library resources in non-book formats, are available through the Instructional Resources Center, which is housed on the first floor of Roberts Library (DSU Libraries, IRC). Access to collections of manuscripts, archives, photographs, oral histories, and other primary source materials for the support of teaching and research in a variety of disciplines is available through the Charles W. Capps, Jr. Archives and Museum (DSU Libraries, Archives). In addition to providing information and instruction through direct personal interaction, DSU libraries offer more than fifty library subject guides and pathfinders that are available both in hard copy and at the library website (DSU Libraries, Guides).. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/13.htm (4 of 6) [8/7/2003 2:24:34 PM].

(38) 13. Public Services The DSU libraries provide information and service support to all DSU public service programs. As a regional university, DSU has established a wide range of public service programs throughout the Delta. Moreover, Library Services routinely supports the information needs of the larger Delta community by providing unrestricted access to library collections, information resources, and instructional services. Each year dozens of public and private school classes visit the library to use its information resources or to receive information literacy instruction. DSU librarians regularly offer information literacy workshops for Delta area librarians and teachers. A reciprocal borrowing agreement with all public libraries, community colleges, and the other university in northwest Mississippi permits Delta area citizens to use and borrow DSU library materials (Dancing Rabbit Library Consortium). Most evenings and weekends a significant segment of Roberts Library and Instructional Resources Center users are non-DSU students. DOCUMENTATION Source. Location. DSU Bulletin 2002-2004, p. 11. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/ugcat.pdf#page=9. DSU Libraries, About Library Services. http://library.deltastate.edu/aboutlib/aboutlib.html. DSU Libraries, Distance Education Resources. http://library.deltastate.edu/distance.html. DSU Self-Study, NCATE. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/coe/ncate.htm. DSU Self-Study, Art. location.asp. DSU Self-Study, Nursing. location.asp. MAGNOLIA. http://www.lib.usm.edu/~magnolia/magnolia.html. SOLINET. http://www.solinet.net/. DSU Libraries, Reciprocal Borrowing. http://library.deltastate.edu/libguides/reciprocal.html. DSU Libraries, Government Documents. http://library.deltastate.edu/aboutlib/departments/govdocsinfo.html. DSU Libraries, Full Text Electronic Journals. http://library.deltastate.edu/ejournals/jnlsA.html. DSU Libraries, Interlibrary Loan Services. http://library.deltastate.edu/aboutlib/departments/illinfo.html. DSU Libraries, Catalog. http://library.deltastate.edu/index.html. DSU Fall 2002 Graduation Questionnaire Summary. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/irp/facts.html. DSU Libraries, Annual Reports. location.asp. Library Addition and Renovation Project. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/docs/renovation02.pdf. DSU Libraries, Annual Reports. location.asp. DSU Libraries, Catalog. http://library.deltastate.edu/index.html. DSU Libraries, Distance Education Resources. http://library.deltastate.edu/distance.html. DSU Libraries, Circulation Services and Policies. http://library.deltastate.edu/aboutlib/departments/circinfo.html. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/13.htm (5 of 6) [8/7/2003 2:24:34 PM].

(39) 13. RUSA Guidelines for Information Services. http://www.ala.org/rusa/stnd_consumer.html. DSU Libraries, Reference Department. http://library.deltastate.edu/aboutlib/departments/referenceinfo.html. ACRL Guidelines for Instruction Programs in Academic Libraries. http://www.ala.org/acrl/guides/guiis.html. DSU Libraries, Instruction Program. http://library.deltastate.edu/aboutlib/departments/libinstruction.html. DSU Libraries, Interlibrary Loan Services. http://library.deltastate.edu/aboutlib/departments/illinfo.html. DSU Libraries, Distance Education Resources. http://library.deltastate.edu/distance.html. DSU Libraries, Instructional Resources Center. http://library.deltastate.edu/aboutlib/departments/ircinfo.html. DSU Libraries, Archives and Museum. http://library.deltastate.edu/aboutlib/departments/archivesinfo.html. DSU Libraries, Guides. http://library.deltastate.edu/libguides/libguides.html. Dancing Rabbit Library Consortium Reciprocal Borrowing. http://library.deltastate.edu/libguides/dancingrabbit.pdf. http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/sacs/reports/13.htm (6 of 6) [8/7/2003 2:24:34 PM].

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