US Laws, Codes, Statutes & Cases

§ 23-276.3. Authority of the State Council of Higher Education; delegation of authority to director.

A. The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia shall adopt, pursuant to the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.) such regulations as may be necessary to implement the provisions of this chapter. The Council's regulations shall include, but need not be limited to, (i) procedures by which a school may apply for Council approval to confer degrees in Virginia; (ii) measures designed to ensure that all postsecondary schools that are subject to the provisions of this chapter meet minimal academic standards; (iii) protections for students pursuing postsecondary education opportunities in schools subject to the provisions of this chapter; and (iv) information to assist persons who rely on postsecondary degrees, diplomas, and certificates in judging the competence of individuals.

B. The minimal standards established by the Council shall include, but need not be limited to, faculty preparation and experience, educational programs, physical plants, additional locations, finances, guaranty instruments, advertising and publications, maintenance of student records, personnel qualifications, student services, the method for collecting and refunding tuition and fees, library resources and services, organization and administration, changes of ownership or control, procedures for student admission and graduation, agent or solicitor requirements, consistency of a school's stated purpose with the proposed offerings, reporting requirements, and any other relevant standards or requirements promulgated by action of the Council or an accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education.

C. The Council shall prescribe the manner, conditions, and language to be used by a school, person, or agent thereof in disclosing or advertising that the school has received certification from the Council to offer postsecondary programs in Virginia.

D. In addition to the other requirements of this chapter, the Council may establish separate certification criteria for various school classifications.

E. Pursuant to the provisions of this chapter and its implementing regulations, the Council may grant to its director the authority to take, on its behalf, specific actions.

(Code 1950, § 23-268; 1980, c. 658; 1996, cc. 691, 832; 2002, c. 178; 2004, c. 991; 2005, c. 447.)