The Middle States Commission on Higher Education serves as the regional accrediting agency for Towson University. While Middle States does not formally approved academic programs, the development and modification of programs may result in substantive changes to the institution which requires prior approval before implementation by Middle States. As a result, the assistant provost and the assistant vice president for assessment work together to ensure appropriate steps are taken at the institutional level, as well as with USM, MHEC and Middle States.