#United States #Lakewood #RMCAD #Rocky Mountain College #Higher Learning Commission

RMCAD's Journey Towards Academic Excellence

The Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) has reached a significant landmark in its esteemed history by securing reaccreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). This milestone not only reinforces the college’s dedication to maintaining high standards in academic quality and institutional integrity but also extends its accredited status for the next ten years.

The reaccreditation follows a meticulous evaluation process, which included an extensive review of RMCAD's operations. As part of this review, the HLC conducted an onsite visit in the spring of 2025, during which they met with numerous stakeholders including students, faculty, staff, and members of RMCAD's Board of Directors. This comprehensive evaluation underscores the college's commitment to creating a supportive and diverse learning environment that is focused on community engagement and global outreach.

In their report, the HLC peer review team offered high praise for the college’s mission-centered approach, academic rigor, and its ability to provide quality learning experiences for students. They noted that RMCAD acts with integrity and employs best practices to ensure the continuous improvement of educational offerings. These positive assessments reflect the hard work and dedication of RMCAD's faculty and staff, whose commitment to student success is evident in every aspect of campus life.

Brent Fitch, President of RMCAD, expressed deep gratitude for the support of the entire college community, highlighting that the reaccreditation is a result of combined efforts. “This accomplishment not only confirms that we are meeting the rigorous standards set by the HLC but also actively exceeds them. It validates the hard work that everyone has put into making RMCAD a leading institution in creative education,” he stated.

RMCAD's recent invitation to join HLC's Open Pathway, an exclusive designation for institutions that show a commitment to continuous improvement and excellence, underscores the college’s dedication to innovation in education. This pathway is anticipated to catalyze strategic projects that further enhance RMCAD's educational offerings, ensuring that students receive a forward-thinking education that prepares them for tomorrow’s challenges.

Dr. Amy Smith, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost, focused on the importance of reaccreditation as a formal acknowledgment of the college’s relentless pursuit of educational excellence. She pointed out that the reaccreditation confirms that RMCAD provides a high-quality education, which is crucial for preparing students for impactful careers in various fields.

RMCAD, established in 1963, has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 2020 and is now set for its next evaluation in 2034-2035. The college prides itself on offering a unique blend of traditional and online educational opportunities from its picturesque 23-acre campus in Lakewood, Colorado. Students are guided by practicing industry professionals in an intimate learning environment that emphasizes creativity and individualized support.

Among the key points highlighted in the HLC's report was RMCAD's strong focus on community engagement. The college makes its extensive creative resources available to the broader public through accessible lectures and exhibitions. This reflects RMCAD's ongoing commitment to inspire and educate not just its students, but the surrounding community as well.

Moreover, the dedication to overall professional development for both students and faculty stands out. The college offers a comprehensive professional development program, ensuring that both current students and alumni continue to thrive in their respective careers.

Ultimately, RMCAD is dedicated to fostering a culture of creative exploration and intellectual inquiry, as noted by the peer review team. During their visit, the HLC team observed the vibrant atmosphere of creativity on campus, with students and faculty eagerly sharing their artistic and research endeavors. This dynamic environment exemplifies RMCAD's mission of providing an innovative, rigorous, and community-oriented global learning experience that cultivates passion and creativity.

As RMCAD looks forward to the next decade with renewed vigor, it remains steadfast in its mission to support and empower its students, preparing them not only to excel in their studies but to thrive as future leaders in the creative industries.