University Accreditation in The Us

Let’s start with a puzzling note

If a university states, that they are a university or an institution uses a qualifier term (career, business or vocational), it does not imply that it is ACCREDITATED.

So, as presumably, there are some con-consultants who can get you to the US, on inconceivably cheaper prices. In such a situation, it is beneficial to check the accreditation of a university. So let us help you in understanding the system and determine the right choice for you (You are going to the US, especially for quality education, common!! It is hence THE most important factor in determining the university, you want to study in). Let us begin!!The education system in the US is de-centralized un-like India. This means states have a dominant say in how the institutions would work and what will be their guiding morals and principles.

Accreditation is offered by regional and national agencies operating within the US. It is acquired by universities, colleges and schools to emphasize that their credits and programs meet the minimum requirements. It helps you, as a student, to be assured of the quality of education. There are certain non – accredited universities as well that are operating within the United States, though their number is comparatively less.

Regional Accreditation:

There are seven regional accrediting organizations in the United States. The Council of Regional Accrediting Commissions (C-RAC), forms principles and guidelines which are brought into action by regional commissions, on a state level. It is important that it is completely a choice of a university, whether they want to go for accreditation or not. It is a long process and it consumes a lot of time. So, if you are applying for a program that recently introduced, it is possible that it might not have received accreditation. You can always ask your questions from the relevant authorities.

There are two types of regional accreditations – Specialized and Institutional accreditation:

• Institutional accreditation – It determines the value of an institute/university/school/college, as a whole. All the programs and departments contribute towards its accreditation.
• Specialized accreditation – It determines the value of a particular program within the institute/university/school/college.

National Accreditation:

In-spite of the large number of universities that are either non – profit organizations or state-owned institutions, there are some for-profit institutions. Then, there are some institutions that are career oriented. For keeping a watchful eye on such institutions, national accreditation was brought into place.

Comparative Result:

Both the accreditations are recognized by US’s Department of Education. Most of the institutions prefer to have a regional accreditation as compared to National Accreditation. One reason could be that national accreditation has flexible standards in regards to library resources or qualification of faculty members. So, it depends if you are going for career-oriented opportunities or educational oriented organizations. You should go to the institute’s website, testimonials and you can visit the website of US Department of Education. There is brief information on accredited institutions, criteria and process and more information on recognized accreditors.