Discover if Governors State University is accredited, what HLC means, and why it matters for your future. Learn about program-specific approvals, employer acceptance, and credit transferability.
What You Really Need to Know About GSU
Where is Governors State University located?
Governors State University (GSU) is a public university located in University Park, Illinois. Established in 1969, GSU serves over 5,000 students across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
Quick facts about GSU you should know
- Type: Public university
- Founded: 1969
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Location: University Park, Illinois
- Popular Programs: Business, Education, Health, and Arts
Yes, GSU is Accredited – But Here’s the Full Story
GSU’s Regional Accreditation Explained
GSU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), one of the six regional institutional accreditors in the U.S. This is the highest form of institutional accreditation and assures that GSU meets academic and administrative standards recognized nationwide.
What is HLC and why does it matter?
The Higher Learning Commission accredits post-secondary institutions in 19 states. Accreditation by HLC ensures that GSU:
- Meets federal and state educational standards
- Qualifies for federal financial aid
- Ensures transferability of credits
- Is eligible for graduate school admissions
How GSU earned its accreditation status
GSU undergoes a rigorous review process every 10 years. Its most recent reaffirmation occurred in 2019, with the next scheduled review set for 2028-2029.
Is Governors State University nationally recognized?
Yes. While HLC is a regional accreditor, it is nationally recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and CHEA (Council for Higher Education Accreditation).
Why Accreditation Actually Matters
The difference between regional and national
- Regional accreditation (like HLC): More prestigious, widely accepted by employers and other institutions.
- National accreditation: Often used by vocational or for-profit schools, may not be accepted by traditional universities.
How accreditation impacts your degree’s value
A degree from a regionally accredited institution like GSU is:
- Recognized by employers
- Accepted for graduate school admissions
- Qualifies for licensure in many fields
Can you transfer credits from GSU?
Yes, thanks to regional accreditation, credits earned at GSU are transferable to most other accredited universities across the U.S.
Program-Specific Accreditations That Add Value
Accredited business and MBA programs
GSU’s College of Business is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), adding more credibility to its business and MBA degrees.
Education and healthcare programs: Are they certified?
- College of Education programs are approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).
- Healthcare programs like Nursing are accredited by bodies such as CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education).
What about GSU’s online degrees? Are they legit?
Yes. GSU’s online programs are held to the same academic standards as on-campus programs and are also covered under HLC accreditation.
GSU vs Other Illinois Universities
Accreditation comparison chart
| University | Accreditation | Specialized Accreditations |
|---|---|---|
| Governors State University | HLC | ACBSP, CCNE, ISBE |
| University of Illinois | HLC | AACSB, ABET, NCATE |
| Northern Illinois Univ. | HLC | AACSB, NASM, CAEP |
| Illinois State University | HLC | CAEP, AACSB, CCNE |
What makes GSU a good alternative?
- Affordable tuition
- Strong community and regional partnerships
- Focus on adult and transfer students
- Career-focused programs
Pros & cons of studying at GSU
Pros:
- Regionally accredited
- Career-oriented programs
- Flexible schedules and online options
Cons:
- Smaller campus compared to flagship universities
- Fewer research facilities
Common Questions About GSU’s Legitimacy
Is GSU a diploma mill?
Absolutely not. GSU is a fully accredited public university backed by the state of Illinois and recognized by federal accreditation bodies.
Will employers accept my GSU degree?
Yes. Employers across the U.S. and abroad recognize GSU degrees thanks to its regional accreditation and specialized program accreditations.
Do international agencies recognize GSU?
Many international credential evaluators accept GSU degrees, especially when required for work or further studies abroad.
How to Verify GSU’s Accreditation Yourself
Step-by-step guide to HLC database lookup
- Visit: https://www.hlcommission.org
- Click on “Directory of Institutions”
- Type “Governors State University”
- Click on the result to see accreditation status
Download or link to GSU’s accreditation certificate
You can find GSU’s accreditation confirmation directly on the official HLC website or request a certificate from GSU’s Office of Institutional Effectiveness.
Real Reviews: What Students Say About GSU
Trustpilot, Reddit & student forums: Mixed opinions
While GSU is praised for affordability and supportive professors, some students mention limited campus life or fewer extracurriculars.
Alumni success stories worth noting
- Graduates working in Fortune 500 companies
- Educators in Chicago Public Schools
- Healthcare professionals in Illinois and beyond
Final Verdict: Is GSU Right for You?
Who should consider GSU?
- Adult learners
- Transfer students
- First-generation college students
- Working professionals seeking career advancement
When to choose another university instead
If you’re looking for a traditional campus experience with extensive research facilities or NCAA athletics, a larger state university may be a better fit.
FAQs About GSU and Accreditation
Does GSU lose accreditation often?
No. GSU has consistently maintained HLC accreditation since its founding.
Can I get federal aid at GSU?
Yes. GSU students qualify for FAFSA, federal grants, and student loans.
How often is GSU reviewed by HLC?
Every 10 years, with interim reviews as needed.
