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Home | Education Advisor | Tips & Advice | Accreditation 101

Accreditation 101


Accreditation is the process by which an organization gains recognition as a legitimate provider of high quality services. Academic accreditation is given to schools by an accrediting agency and helps maintain standards for trained faculty, a diverse and qualified student body, and courses that are up-to-date.

If you're applying to a degree program, it's extremely important to make sure that the school awarding your degree is accredited, ensuring that you get a viable degree and a quality education. Accreditation protects you from diploma mills or programs that provide bogus degrees.

Why Is Accreditation Important?

  • If you're applying for federal funding, you will only be eligible if you attend an accredited program.
  • If you want to transfer academic credits to a different degree program, they will only be accepted from an accredited institution.
  • When you apply for a job, the employer may check to make sure you received your education from an accredited school. An accredited education may also affect your ability to get a raise or a promotion.
  • For jobs that require licensure or certification, you may only be eligible if your training comes from an accredited program.


How Does a School Get Accreditation?

Accreditation is given after a thorough review by private, non-governmental organizations such as the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Schools are examined on the basis of their faculty, recruiting and admissions procedures, course content, and more.

During this voluntary process, a school must demonstrate its accomplishments and undergo a peer review. If problems are found, the school must make improvements. Accreditation is an ongoing process, and a school must be reviewed on a regular basis to maintain its accreditation.

Accreditation gives schools an incentive to continually improve their programs. It also ensures accountability. If you're applying for a degree program, make sure the schools on your list are accredited, and you'll have confidence in the quality of your education.

Sources
U.S. Department of Education
Council for Higher Education Accreditation