What Should I Know About College Accreditation?

How important is a college's accreditation when applying and after graduation? I'm trying to understand how it affects the value of a degree and future job prospects. Any advice on verifying accreditation would also be appreciated!

Accreditation is quite a significant factor when it comes to choosing a college. It acts as a quality assurance process that gauges whether a college or university meets specific standards set by an accrediting body. In the United States, the Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) are the two main authorities responsible for accrediting organizations.

An accredited college ensures that the education you're receiving is up to recognized standards. If you graduate from an accredited institution, employers and graduate programs alike can be confident in the quality of your training and education.

On the other hand, graduating from a non-accredited institution may limit your prospects, as some employers and grad programs may question the quality of your education. Furthermore, if you plan on transferring credits between colleges or applying for financial aid, accreditation becomes vital. Most colleges will only accept credits from other accredited institutions, and federal financial aid is often only available to students attending an accredited college.

To verify a college's accreditation, you can usually check the institution's official website where it should be stated clearly. If you can't find the information there, you can search for the university in the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs provided by the U.S. Department of Education or directly contact the college's admissions office.

In summary, make sure to prioritize colleges with known accreditations to ensure the validity and value of your degree for your future endeavors.