Maryland Higher Education Commission MHEC

Overview

The Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) serves as the state’s central authority for coordinating and overseeing postsecondary education in Maryland. Established in 1988, MHEC is responsible for setting statewide policies for public and private colleges and universities, as well as for-profit career schools. The Commission also administers financial aid programs affecting students statewide and plays a key role in strategic planning for higher education development in Maryland.

Historical and Legal Framework

MHEC was created in 1988 through legislation codified in the Maryland Education Article, §§10-207 and 11-105. It replaced earlier entities, including the Maryland Council for Higher Education (1968–1976) and the State Board for Higher Education (1976–1988). The Commission’s formation aimed to centralize and streamline the governance of Maryland’s higher education system, providing a unified body to manage policy, planning, and coordination across institutions.

Mission, Vision, and Objectives — Role in Higher Education

Mission: MHEC’s mission is to ensure that the people of Maryland have access to a high-quality, adequately funded, effectively managed, and capably led system of postsecondary education, adhering to principles of equal educational opportunity.

Vision: The Commission envisions all Maryland residents being equally prepared to be productive, socially engaged, and responsible members of a healthy economy.

Objectives:

• Develop and implement the Maryland State Plan for Higher Education, which outlines priorities and goals for the state's postsecondary system.
• Coordinate the growth and development of postsecondary education in Maryland.
• Establish statewide policies for public and private colleges and universities, as well as for-profit career schools.
• Administer financial aid programs affecting students statewide.
• Ensure that postsecondary institutions maintain appropriate standards of quality and accountability.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

MHEC operates as an independent agency of the State of Maryland. The Commission consists of twelve members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Secretary of Higher Education serves as the agency’s head and is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Commission. The agency's structure allows for a coordinated approach to higher education policy and planning, ensuring that the state's postsecondary education system is aligned with its economic and social goals.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation Role in Higher Education

While MHEC does not directly accredit institutions, it plays a critical role in ensuring that Maryland’s higher education institutions meet established standards of quality. The Commission reviews and approves the establishment of new institutions and academic programs, ensuring they align with state policies and meet necessary criteria. Additionally, MHEC collaborates with accrediting bodies to monitor the performance and quality of higher education institutions within the state. Institutions must be accredited to participate in federal and state financial aid programs, and MHEC supports this process by providing guidance and oversight.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

MHEC is actively involved in international education initiatives through its participation in various networks and partnerships. The Commission collaborates with organizations such as the Maryland International Education Consortium (MIEC) to promote global engagement and internationalization among Maryland’s higher education institutions. These partnerships facilitate student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and the development of global competencies among students. Through these efforts, MHEC helps position Maryland's higher education system as a globally connected and competitive entity.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

Looking ahead, MHEC continues to influence the trajectory of higher education in Maryland through its strategic planning and policy development. The Commission's 2022 State Plan for Higher Education outlines key priorities, including enhancing access to postsecondary education, improving student success, and aligning educational outcomes with workforce needs. MHEC's initiatives aim to address challenges such as affordability, equity, and workforce readiness, ensuring that Maryland's higher education system meets the evolving needs of its residents and the economy.

Summary

The Maryland Higher Education Commission plays a vital role in shaping the state's higher education landscape. Through its policy development, planning, and oversight functions, MHEC ensures that Maryland's postsecondary education system is of high quality, accessible, and aligned with the state's economic and social objectives. The Commission's commitment to strategic planning and international collaboration positions Maryland's higher education institutions for continued success and global competitiveness.

FAQs

• What is the Maryland Higher Education Commission?

  The Maryland Higher Education Commission is the state's central authority responsible for coordinating and overseeing postsecondary education in Maryland, including establishing policies and administering financial aid programs.

• When was MHEC established?

  MHEC was established in 1988 through legislation codified in the Maryland Education Article, §§10-207 and 11-105.

• Does MHEC accredit institutions?

  No, MHEC does not directly accredit institutions. However, it plays a critical role in ensuring that institutions meet established standards by reviewing and approving new institutions and academic programs, and collaborating with accrediting bodies.

• How does MHEC support financial aid?

  MHEC administers financial aid programs affecting students statewide, providing assistance to help make postsecondary education more accessible and affordable.

• Is MHEC involved in international education?

  Yes, MHEC collaborates with organizations like the Maryland International Education Consortium to promote global engagement and internationalization among Maryland's higher education institutions.

Organization Name

Maryland Higher Education Commission

Acronym

MHEC

Year of Establishment

1/01/1988

Control Type

Public

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

Local or Regional

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

6 N. Liberty Suite, 10th Floor
Baltimore
21201 Maryland United States

Phone

+1 (410) 767 3301

Fax

+1 (410) 332 0270

List of universities in Maryland recognized by the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC):

Maryland

• Binah Institute of Advanced Judaic Studies for Women - Baltimore
• Bowie State University - Bowie
• Capitol Technology University - Laurel
• Coppin State University - Baltimore
• Frostburg State University - Frostburg
• Goucher College - Baltimore
• Hood College - Frederick
• Johns Hopkins University - Baltimore
• Lincoln College of Technology - Columbia
• Loyola University Maryland - Baltimore
• Maryland Institute College of Art - Baltimore
• Maryland University of Integrative Health - Laurel
• McDaniel College - Westminster
• Morgan State University - Baltimore
• Mount St. Mary's University - Emmitsburg
• Ner Israel Rabbinical College - Baltimore
• Notre Dame of Maryland University - Baltimore
• Salisbury University - Salisbury
• St. John's College - Annapolis
• St. Mary's College of Maryland - St. Mary's City
• Stevenson University (Owings Mills Campus) - Owings Mills
• Stevenson University (Stevenson Campus) - Stevenson
• Talmudical Academy of Baltimore - Baltimore
• Towson University - Towson
• University of Baltimore - Baltimore
• University of Maryland - Center for Environmental Science - Cambridge
• University of Maryland Eastern Shore - Princess Anne
• University of Maryland Global Campus - Adelphi
• University of Maryland, Baltimore - Baltimore
• University of Maryland, Baltimore County - Baltimore
• University of Maryland, College Park - College Park
• University System of Maryland Office - Adelphi
• Washington Adventist University - Takoma Park
• Washington College - Chestertown
• Women's Institute of Torah Seminary and College - Baltimore
• Yeshiva College of Nations Capital - Silver Spring

Official Social Media Channels

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Wikipedia Article

Maryland Higher Education Commission's Wikipedia article

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