Visiting Committees

The Board of Higher Education coordinates the review and approval of new academic programs at Massachusetts independent institutions chartered after 1943 and out-of-state institutions seeking to offer courses for college credit in Massachusetts. To review petitions, the Board relies upon the judgment of disinterested professionals who are formed into a visiting committee.

The visiting committee will thoroughly examine the materials submitted by the institution, may visit the institution and engage with its representatives, and will assess the institution’s compliance with the comprehensive review criteria set forth in 610 CMR 2.07 or 610 CMR 2.08. This rigorous process ensures the institution's overall character and fitness to offer the degree(s) requested and culminates in a detailed report to the Board containing recommendations regarding the requested authorization.

Members of the visiting committee, carefully selected from among professionals with appropriate credentials and demonstrated professional experience in college-level teaching, research, administration, and/or other relevant activities within institutions of higher education and/or educational and cultural organizations, bring a wealth of expertise to the review process. Non-educator professionals and practitioners from appropriate fields may also be included, further enriching the diversity of perspectives.

Visiting committee members receive a stipend from the Board for their participation in this process.

Serving on a Visiting Committee

Individuals interested in serving on a Visiting Committee for future institutional and academic program reviews should complete the Visiting Committee Member Interest Form.

If you have questions about this form or about service on a Visting Committee, please contact programreview@dhe.mass.edu.