ABERDEEN, S.D. – The Rising Scholars program at Northern State University has been granted re-accreditation by the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP), the only national accrediting body for concurrent enrollment programs.

Following an extensive peer-review process, Northern’s program was re-accredited through the 2031–32 academic year. The decision was made by the NACEP Accreditation Commission at its April 29, 2025, meeting. Northern State remains the only institution in South Dakota with a NACEP-accredited concurrent enrollment program.

Northern first earned accreditation from NACEP in 2017. This year’s re-accreditation required a comprehensive self-study and detailed documentation demonstrating alignment with all 16 of NACEP’s national standards. These standards focus on areas such as faculty qualifications, course content, assessment, student support, and program oversight.

The commission’s official findings commended the Rising Scholars program for its strong faculty engagement and clearly presented materials, especially in the areas of partnerships and mentorship.

“We are honored to receive NACEP re-accreditation status. Complying with the NACEP standards ensures high quality college courses taught at the high school. The program team includes high school teachers and counselors, NSU faculty and staff, and leadership both at the high school and the university. All the partners are deeply committed to the students’ success,” said Terry Piatz, Director of the Rising Scholars program.

The Rising Scholars program provides high school students the opportunity to earn college credit through courses offered in partnership with high schools. Courses are taught by qualified instructors and overseen by Northern faculty to ensure alignment with university expectations.

Northern’s re-accreditation places it among 22 institutions nationwide reaffirmed during the 2024–25 accreditation cycle. In total, 136 programs across 132 institutions in 26 states currently hold NACEP accreditation.

Programs with renewed accreditation commit to maintaining NACEP standards and submitting annual reports. Northern’s next reapplication will occur during the 2030–31 academic year.

More information about NACEP and its accreditation process can be found at nacep.org.