Step 3: Writing the Self-Study

Self-Study Preparation

Steps to writing a well-organized and easy to read self study document include the following. Use the "Link to Self-Study Manual Appendices" in the box to the right for templates to help you:

1. The required Outcomes Assessment Plan template (see box to the right).
2. Self-Study Template 2024 (see box to the right).
3. The Outcomes Assessment Presentation and the Focus on Measurement Tools Presentation to help with Principle 1: Outcomes Assessment.
4. ​Strategic planning sample template (see box to the right).
5. The Preparing a Self Study for COSMA Accreditation presentation from the #COSMA2021 Conference.
6. How to Comply with COSMA's Public Disclosure Requirements - Instructions and template.

SELF-Study Webinar series

• Part I: Principles 1 & 2
• Part II: Principles 3-5
• Part III: Principles 6-7, Site Visit Process

Commissioner Dr. Emily Dane-Staples on tackling Principle 2: Strategic Planning

Writing the self-study: step-by-step

Your self-study consists of two sections, Volume 1 and Volume 2. Submit one .pdf for each Volume. All documents are expected to be electronic.
Volume 1:

• Title Page
• Table of Contents
• Background information
• Documentation of Accreditation Principles - responses to self-study guideline questions

Volume 2 (Appendices):

• Strategic Plan
• Abbreviated Course Syllabi
• Full- and Part-Time Faculty CVs
• Faculty Handbook
• ​Faculty Evaluation Instrument
• Internship Manual

• Accreditation Principles and Self-Study Preparation Manual (2024)
• Link to Templates, Forms & Examples
• Accreditation Process Manual
• Site Visit Preparation Manual
• Program Membership Application
• Site Reviewer Resource Guide​