If you are considering your options for online education, we recommend that you only choose accredited online colleges. There are a multitude of advantages associated with accreditation, including access to federal financial aid programs and the marketability of credentials when seeking employment. At Faulkner University, based in Alabama, we are proud to offer accredited, high-quality online degree programs. Learn more about how a college or university’s accreditation status can affect your future.
What Is College Accreditation?
Institutions of higher education possess a significant degree of self-determination in the U.S. The process of accreditation occurs through peer evaluation. Educational associations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) help determine whether an institution’s programs meet quality standards as measured against established criteria. These criteria assess the content and requirements of programs.
Involving both self-assessment and peer assessment, this process usually includes a visit to the institution by a team of appropriate faculty members, administrative staff, and related practitioners recruited from similar institutions of higher learning. The process is voluntary for institutions.
The Role of Accreditation in Online Learning
Students approach online learning for many reasons and with diverse goals. Some want to earn a micro certification for a specific skill set. Others want to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a discipline of interest to them. Many want to qualify to work in a profession or career. As students and graduates develop more advanced educational goals, they may pursue doctorates and master’s degrees online.
The process of accreditation helps these students choose programs that provide adequate value for their futures and return on their investment, as measured by the amount of tuition they pay and time spent performing coursework. The attitude of prospective employers about the institution from which the degrees or other certifications are earned should also be a factor. Educational programs that are accredited by well-established and recognized accrediting entities usually offer more value to students and graduates.
Financial Aid and Accreditation
Only institutions and degree programs that have received accreditation status from agencies recognized by the Department of Education or CHEA may participate in federal financial aid programs. If students who qualify plan to take out loans or apply for grants under this program, they should make sure that the institution is an accredited online college. Faulkner University offers financial aid for online students who are eligible under federal guidelines.
Accreditation Recognition by Licensing and Certification Boards
Many occupations and careers require state licensing and certification to legally work in the profession. This includes teachers in public schools, allied health professionals, such as psychological counselors, and public servants, such as fire investigators. Most states use tests proctored by independent certification agencies or have strict guidelines for programs that meet licensing requirements. Before embarking on an online degree program, we recommend that potential students investigate these types of rules and regulations set by states or other organizations.
Assessing Accreditation Status
Avoid scams by carefully investigating the accreditation status of educational programs and institutions. Faulkner University is a fully accredited online college by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Explore our online educational degree programs and take advantage of the in-depth coursework, experienced faculty, and campus resources available to online students.
Accredited Online College Programs at Faulkner University
Get the most you can out of educational programs by choosing an accredited online college. Based in Montgomery, Alabama, Faulkner University offers online degree programs to students throughout the country. For more information, request information today.