College and University Accreditation

Ciesla & Ciesla is a Chicago area law firm that has extensive experience representing colleges and universities (public and private, for profit and not for profit) in various accreditation matters. Our firm assists and advises colleges and universities in all stages of accreditation. Whether a college or university is looking to obtain its first accreditation or seeking re-accreditation Ciesla & Ciesla has the experience to prepare a school for the accreditation process - from self studies, to preparation for on-site visits to responses to on-site visits.

Ciesla & Ciesla has experience advising and representing colleges and universities when accreditation has been suspended or withdrawn or when sanctions are implemented by an accrediting body. While negotiation and open communication are always our preferred method of settling accreditation issues, our firm has represented and led schools through show-cause hearings, appeal hearings and state and federal litigation.

Additionally, Clients look to Ciesla & Ciesla for legal advice in such matters as:

• Accreditation compliance
• On Notice sanctions
• Probation sanctions
• Show Cause Orders
• Appeals of accrediting boards' decisions and orders to appeal panels
• Responses to adverse actions
• Withdrawals of accreditation
• Responses to accrediting body reports, determinations and findings'
• Faculty, student and executive policies and procedures
• Financial aid audits (i.e. Title III and Title IV federal financial aid)
• Self studies

Ciesla & Ciesla will work with accrediting agencies including:

• The Higher Learning Commission (North Central Association of Colleges and Schools)
• Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
• Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
• New England Association of Schools and Colleges
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges

Ciesla & Ciesla, P.C.
836 Skokie Boulevard
Suite 220
Northbrook IL 60062
Phone: (847) 412 1988
Fax: (847) 418 3217
www.cieslaciesla.com

Located in Northbrook, Illinois, at Ciesla & Ciesla we develop strategies and solutions to help our business clients achieve success. We serve businesses across DuPage County, Cook County, and the Chicago area, including the cities of Deerfield, Lake Forest, Winnetka, Glencoe, Wilmette, Kenilworth, Evanston, Glenview, Skokie, and Highland Park.