There are basically three types of accreditation that differentiates institutions of higher education. We use the term higher education to refer to college and university level education (post secondary). One is national accreditation, and the other is regional; a third would be specialized or program accreditation.
Accreditation is an important consideration for several reasons. One is to be aware of what is acceptable or recognized by any present or future employer, and the other is to avoid being scammed by a so-called diploma mill. Diploma mills have been written about over the years and considered to be a negative reference to include in one’s resume or to claim to have received a degree from one of these. GetEducated.Com is considered the diploma mills police and writes regular articles of advisement and exposes negative perceptions.
The DoED also lists considerations and known issues relative to diploma mills on its website. Buzz words that may indicate a diploma mill: order now, no exams, flat fee, and no waiting are just some that should make you pause and be concerned. The U.S. Department of Education (DoED) recognizes accrediting bodies, for instance, the Distance Education Training Council (DETC) is a recognized national accrediting body. The Department also recognizes some regional bodies, for example, The Council For Higher Education Association (CHEA) accredits institutions through recognized quality standards.
The DoED clarifies for education consumers: “The U.S. Secretary of Education is required by statute to publish a list of nationally recognized accrediting agencies that the Secretary determines to be reliable authorities as to the quality of education or training provided by the institutions of higher education and the higher education programs they accredit.”
For more information and resources:
Is Accreditation Accountable? The Continuing Conversation Between Accreditation and the Federal Government by Judith S. Eaton
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