Accreditation is the responsibility of an external commission. Faculty involvement is essential to valid accreditation. Accreditation is conducted on a cyclic basis, usually 5-10 years. Shorter cycles are used when serious problems are noted. Accreditation recently has emphasized student learning and development as an important criterion of effectiveness and quality.
CHEA recognition maintains the tradition of voluntary non-governmental accreditation.
The Secretary of Education determines if the accrediting association is a reliable authority on the quality of education or training offered. An institution must receive approval from a state before it can conduct business. Obtaining a state license often does not require demonstration of quality nor accreditation before it can operate. State licensure also permits individuals to practice the profession in the state once they meet minimal academic requirements. They must take a thorough examination to demonstrate a desired level of competence.