Accreditation

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the recognized local agency that is affiliated with the Federation of Regional Accrediting Commissions of Higher Education, accredit Cabrillo College. The College adheres to the institutional standards set forth by the Accreditation Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, and has been approved by the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges and the California State Department of Education. The College is also approved by the California Department of Education for the training of veterans under the provisions of the G.I. Bill of Regulations. The College is a member of the Community College League of California. Designated courses are accepted on a transfer basis by the University of California, the California State University system, and by private four-year colleges and universities. Review and evaluation of the College Mission Statement, Academic Quality, Institutional Effectiveness, and Institutional Integrity will be included in the triennial revision of the college mission statement and this handbook.

California Community Colleges Mission Statement

Per California Education Code 66010.4. (a)

The California Community Colleges shall, as a primary mission, offer academic and vocational instruction at the lower division level for both younger and older students, including those persons returning to school. Public community colleges shall offer instruction through but not beyond the second year of college. These institutions may grant the associate in arts and the associate in science degree.
In addition to the primary mission of academic and vocational instruction, the community colleges shall offer instruction and courses to achieve all of the following:
1. The provision of remedial instruction for those in need of it and, in conjunction with the school districts, instruction in English as a second language, adult noncredit instruction, and support services which help students succeed at the postsecondary level are reaffirmed and supported as essential and important functions of the community colleges.
2. The provision of adult noncredit education curricula in areas defined as being in the state's interest is an essential and important function of the community colleges.
3. The provision of community services courses and programs is an authorized function of the community colleges so long as their provision is compatible with an institution's ability to meet its obligations in its primary missions.
A primary mission of the California Community Colleges is to advance California's economic growth and global competitiveness through education, training, and services that contribute to continuous work force improvement.
The community colleges may conduct to the extent that state funding is provided, institutional research concerning student learning and retention as is needed to facilitate their educational missions.

ACCJC Standard I

The institution demonstrates strong commitment to a mission that emphasizes student learning and student achievement. Using analysis of qualitative and qualitative data, the institution continuously and systematically evaluates, plans, implements, and improves the quality of educational programs and services. The institution demonstrates integrity in all policies, actions, and communication. The administration, faculty, staff, and governing board members act honestly, ethically, and fairly in the performance of their duties.

The mission describes the institution’s broad educational purposes, its intended student population, the types of degrees and other credentials it offers, and its commitment to student learning and student achievement. (ER 6)
The institution uses data to determine how effectively it is accomplishing its mission, and whether the mission directs institutional priorities in meeting the educational needs of students.
The institution’s programs and services are aligned with its mission. The mission guides institutional decision-making, planning, and resource allocation and informs institutional goals for student learning and achievement.
The institution articulates its mission in a widely published statement approved by the governing board. The mission statement is periodically reviewed and updated as necessary. (ER 6)