Complaint Process
Distance Learning Complaint Process for Out-of-State Students
Northwestern State University strives to resolve student grievances, complaints and concerns in an expeditious, fair and amicable manner.
Students residing outside of the State of Louisiana while attending NSU through electronically delivered classes who would like to resolve a grievance should contact the appropriate NSU office. However, if an issue cannot be resolved internally, you may file a complaint with your State.
Complaint Process for students from a SARA member state
Northwestern State University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement. Students from other SARA-approved states should refer to the following documents for the appropriate complaint procedure:
Complaint Process for students from a state that is not a member of SARA
The State Agencies, listed on NC SARA ‘s State Portal Entity Contacts, provide phone numbers, emails and/or links to state education agencies.
SACS Complaints
Northwestern State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Complaints filed against Northwestern State University with SACS must adhere to the following criteria:
- The complaint policy only addresses significant, documented, alleged non-compliance with the SACSCOC accreditation standards, policies or procedures.
- Complainants are expected to have attempted to resolve the issue through the institution’s complaint processes before filing a complaint with SACSCOC.
- The SACSCOC complaint process is not intended to be used to involve the Commission in disputes between individuals and member institutions or to cause the Commission to interpose itself as a reviewing authority in individual matters; nor does the policy allow the Commission to seek redress on an individual’s behalf.
- The primary purpose of the SACSCOC complaint procedure is to acquire valuable information regarding an accredited institution’s possible non-compliance with accreditation standards, policies and procedures rather than to resolve individual disputes.
- Complaints must be tied to specific standard numbers from The Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement.
For more information on how to file a complaint with SACS, click here.
