Receiving institutions take note of whether or not the credits a student wishes to transfer have been earned at an accredited institution. Although accreditation is but one among several factors taken into account by receiving institutions, it is viewed carefully and is considered an important indicator of quality. Engendering employer confidence. Accreditation status of an institution or program is important to employers when evaluating credentials of job applicants and when deciding whether to provide tuition support for current employees seeking additional education. How Accreditation Operates Accreditation of institutions and programs take place on a cycle that may range from every few years to as many as ten years.
Periodic review is a fact of life for accredited institutions and programs.
Self-accreditation is not an option. An institution or program seeking accreditation must go through a number of steps stipulated by an accrediting organization. Institutions and programs prepare a written summary of performance based on accrediting organizations' standards. Peers comprise the majority of members of the accrediting commissions or boards that make judgments about accrediting status. The self-study provides the foundation for the team visit.