Where Can I Find a Directory of Accredited Online Universities

Where Can I Find a Directory of Accredited Online Universities? What Does Accreditation Mean? In the United States, the government does not directly certify universities or colleges. Instead, higher education institutions apply for accreditation from one of several accrediting bodies. The U.S. Department of Education sets the standards by which each accrediting group evaluates schools and degree programs. If the school or program meets these standards, the organization grants formal accreditation. Related Articles Where to Find a List of College Majors Where to Find a List of College Majors What Is Continuous Improvement? What Is Continuous Improvement? How to Learn Feng Shui Through Programs or at Home How to Learn Feng Shui Through Programs or at Home In addition to colleges and universities, specialized programs within an institution may be accredited. For example, Molly College, a Long Island college known for its excellent nursing programs, recently added a Master's degree in nursing to its offerings. The college applied for accreditation for this specialized program even though the entire school is an accredited college. By gaining recognition from specialized accreditation bodies, the school hopes to attract more applicants to its fledgling program. Accreditation isn't easy to obtain. Often it takes a college or university months, if not years, to acquire the correct accreditation. Institutions must submit many examples of courses, rubrics, and student work samples to demonstrate they meet the stringent standards set by the U.S. Department of Education. Choose an Accredited School Choosing an accredited school to earn your college degree online makes sense. When you choose an accredited school or program, credits transfer to another accredited institution. This makes it easier to transfer to a different school should you wish to do so at some point in your academic career. Accreditation also ensures that the university participates in peer review and continuous improvement programs, as well as helping to determine financial aid availability for students.