West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 133 - Higher Education Policy Commission
West Virginia Code of State Rules — Agency 133: Higher Education Policy Commission
Overview
The Higher Education Policy Commission (HEPC) is the state agency responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising public higher education institutions in West Virginia. It sets policies and standards to promote effective and efficient delivery of higher education services across the state’s colleges and universities.
Purpose and Function
Policy Development and Coordination
The Commission develops policies that guide the academic, financial, and administrative functions of state-supported colleges and universities.
Budget and Resource Allocation
It oversees the distribution of state funds to higher education institutions and ensures resources are used to meet statewide education goals.
Program Approval and Review
HEPC reviews and approves new academic programs and evaluates existing programs to ensure alignment with workforce needs and quality standards.
Data Collection and Reporting
The Commission collects data from institutions for planning, accountability, and performance measurement purposes.
Structure and Governance
The Commission consists of appointed members who represent various stakeholders in the state’s higher education system.
Members set strategic direction, adopt policies, and approve major institutional plans and budgets.
The Commission works closely with institutional presidents and administrative staff to implement policies.
Key Rules and Procedures
Institutional Governance
While institutions maintain their own boards or governing bodies, the HEPC establishes overarching policies that these institutions must follow.
Academic Programs
New degree programs and significant changes to existing ones must be submitted to the Commission for review and approval.
The Commission ensures academic offerings avoid unnecessary duplication and meet quality standards.
Funding and Budgeting
The Commission develops funding formulas and allocates appropriations based on criteria such as enrollment, program costs, and performance indicators.
Accountability and Performance
Institutions must submit annual reports on enrollment, graduation rates, financial health, and other performance metrics.
The Commission uses this data to assess institutional effectiveness and inform policy decisions.
Student Financial Aid Policies
The Commission oversees policies related to state-sponsored scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs administered through public institutions.
Coordination with Other Agencies
The HEPC collaborates with other state entities to align higher education goals with economic development and workforce needs.
Enforcement and Compliance
The Commission has authority to enforce compliance with its policies through approval processes, funding decisions, and performance reviews.
Institutions failing to comply with established policies may face restrictions on program approvals or funding allocations.
Summary
Agency 133 — the Higher Education Policy Commission — acts as the central policy-making and coordinating body for West Virginia’s public higher education system. It ensures that colleges and universities operate effectively, deliver quality academic programs, and meet the state’s education and workforce needs by establishing policies, reviewing programs, and overseeing funding.
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