Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) has been recognized by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) as part of the accrediting agency’s inaugural cohort of high-quality noncredit program providers.
The announcement, made following NECHE’s September 2025 Commission meeting, marks a major milestone for SMCC and Maine’s community college system in ensuring excellence and accountability in short-term, skills-based education. SMCC joins a select group of eight institutions—including Kennebec Valley Community College and York County Community College—recognized for meeting NECHE’s rigorous Noncredit Quality Assurance Framework standards.
Each organization completed a comprehensive evaluation process, including an evidence-based report and on-site peer review, to demonstrate adherence to NECHE’s markers of quality.
“We know there are an increasing number of students enrolled in noncredit programs, and there has been a growing need for quality assurance in this space,” said Michaele Whelan, Chairperson of the New England Commission of Higher Education. “NECHE has taken the bold step to address this need, and we are excited to expand our work into this area.”
Founded more than 125 years ago, NECHE is the nation’s oldest accrediting agency and serves as a trusted authority in quality assurance for colleges and universities across New England. Its new Noncredit Recognition Program extends that mission to the growing field of short-term, workforce-focused education—acknowledging institutions that demonstrate excellence in flexible, skills-based learning that responds to employer demand.
“This recognition reflects SMCC’s commitment to helping Maine people gain the skills they need to succeed while supporting the state’s workforce needs,” said SMCC President Kristen Miller. “It highlights our focus on providing high-quality, short-term training that connects learners directly to opportunity.”
As Maine continues to experience workforce shortages across health care, manufacturing, technology, and the trades, SMCC has expanded its portfolio of noncredit and short-term programs that equip students with job-ready skills in months rather than years. These programs, developed in partnership with employers, are a key part of the College’s mission to strengthen Maine’s economy and provide pathways to rewarding careers.
The Commission will begin accepting applications for its next cohort of recognized providers on Nov. 3, 2025.
For more information about SMCC’s workforce and noncredit training opportunities, visit www.smccme.edu/workforce-training.