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What is accreditation?

Accreditation is a voluntary process that gives public recognition to institutions that meet certain standards. It is a promise that an institution will provide the quality of education it claims to offer and provide consumer protection. Accreditation assures the student that the institution operates on a sound financial basis, has an approved program of study, qualified instructors, adequate facilities and equipment, effective recruitment and admission policies, and advertises its courses truthfully. Some Functions of Accreditation:

  • Verifying that an institution or program meets established standards;
  • Assisting prospective students in identifying acceptable institutions;
  • Assisting institutions in determining the acceptability of transfer credits;
  • Helping to identify institutions and programs for the investment of public and private funds;
  • Protecting an institution against harmful internal and external pressure;
  • Creating goals for self-improvement of weaker programs and stimulating a general raising of standards among educational institutions;
  • Involving the faculty and staff comprehensively in institutional evaluation and planning;
  • Establishing criteria for professional certification and licensure and for upgrading courses offering such preparation; and
  • Providing one of several considerations used as a basis for determining eligibility for Federal assistance.