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Alabama Universities Receive Accreditation Warning

SACS

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has placed Tuskegee University and Alabama State University on warning due to a lack of compliance with the accreditation agency's policies.

The association accredits the degree programs at both institutions. It placed Tuskegee University on a 12 month warning period, and extended a warning at Alabama State University for a second time -- now for a full year as well.

At Alabama State, the warning extension ties back to the university's financial status. The SACS cited four non-compliance issues, saying Alabama State failed to meet standards for financial stability, control of finances, control of sponsored or external research programs and financial aid responsibilities.

ASU has experienced severe financial issues since a forensic investigation began in November 2012, including three credit downgrades, a drop in enrollment, and intense scrutiny from the Alabama Attorney General. As of yet, there have been no indictments or criminal charges filed.

At Tuskegee University, the SACS found eight violations of compliance standards claiming the university failed to set acceptable student achievement standards and meet those standards. Tuskegee was also cited for financial issues such as failing to conduct financial aid audits.

The schools will maintain their accreditation for now, but once the warning period is over the SACS has the option of placing the institutions on probation.

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