Accrediting

There are several different accrediting organizations in the and universities and colleges

may be accredited by just one or by a few. Also, individual programs such as the engineering

program at universities and colleges can be accredited by a professional organization that is

specialized in that discipline.





The government does not regulate the quality of educational programs offered at

colleges and universities. Instead, the accreditation of a university, college or school tells

you that the school has met a minimum standard of quality in its academic programs. Accrediting

organizations are authorized by the US Department of Education to set these standards and then

evaluate whether a school's program meets them. If so, then the university, college or

school is said to be by that body.





It is very important to choose a school college or university that has been accredited by a

proper accrediting organization. By attending an accredited college, university or school,

you can be sure that your degree will be recognized by other colleges and universities

should you want to pursue an advanced degree and by employers. You can find out directly

from the school whether it is accredited and also by which organizations. This information

may also be available in some college guides. Beware of bogus accrediting bodies. Some schools

set up their own accrediting agencies which often look legitimate and then accredit their own

school so that they can claim their campus is accredited. Below is a list of reputable

accrediting organizations. Almost all reputable universities, colleges, and schools in the

are accredited by one of the accrediting organizations .