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How Colleges & Universities Get Accredited

The Council for Higher Education Accreditation evaluates US schools.

In the US, university accreditation is performed by private agencies that establish uniform academic standards.

But what does that mean?

Simply put, accredited colleges in the US have been objectively evaluated and the quality of their academic progams is deemed acceptable. With the exception of some private, technical and religious institutions, schools generally seek accreditation as an indicator of legitimacy.

Although there are various national and regional accrediting agencies, the principal body is the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, or CHEA.

Endorsing more than 3,000 schools nationwide, CHEA is the country’s largest and best-known academic evaluator. Its “seal of approval” is internationally recognized.

What Are CHEA’s Requirements for University Accreditation?

CHEA is governed by a 20-person board that includes college and university presidents, institutional representatives and other public members. Together, this board establishes academic standards applicable to all colleges and universities in America.

Their evaluation includes considerations such as:

• Advancement of academic quality. Does this school currently demonstrate acceptable academic standards as well as a commitment to improving them?
• Accountability. Does this school take responsibility for the development and maintenance of its academic programs? Are there clear organizational structures in place? Do they function well?
• Self-scrutiny. How well does this school assess itself? Does it have regular self-evaluation procedures?
• Fairness. Does this school pursue fair and reasonable treatment of its faculty and students? Is it diverse, non-discriminatory and accessible to those seeking enrollment or employment?

The Council for Higher Education Accreditation conducts accreditation reviews every three to ten years, implementing a three-part process of self-evaluation, peer review and final judgment. Its accreditation system is widely considered the best in the US.

In almost all cases, you should make sure you enroll in an accredited college or university. By all means, avoid diploma mills! Remember: university accreditation is shorthand for academic quality and professional standing.