Answers to Most Concerns about Accreditation
Accreditation is one of the biggest concerns for people who wish to earn a high school or college diploma online. A school accredited by the appropriate accrediting body can grant diplomas that lead to greater income opportunities and higher positions. A diploma that is given by a “fake”
school can turn out to be a huge waste of time, energy and money. Do yourself a favor and make sure you know the facts about accreditation before you register for any online program claiming it is accredited.
Accreditation Overview.
Accreditation is a third party review process for a school’s programs and policies to see if it meets certain criteria, generally set by an outside agency. When a school is found to meet the minimum criteria, it is granted accreditation. This process is usually very comprehensive and includes validating the school’s claims in depth for accuracy and to protect the consumer.
Why is accreditation important?
Accreditation is meant to protect students, schools, and employers and ensure academic quality. It ensures that a school is teaching its students at a nationally acceptable level and provides programs that are found to have value and substance. Accrediation also guarantees the schools employs certified instructors that are qualified to teach the appropriate subject matter.
When a student receives a diploma from a school accredited by the right agency, he/she can be assured that it will be accepted by all employers, colleges and schools, government agencies and the military. Likewise, when an employer is considering a new hire, they can be assured that a graduate from an accredited online high school has received the training necessary and didn’t just pay for a diploma from a “diploma mill” school.
Who can grant accreditation?
Anyone can claim that they grant accreditation to schools and many do.
However, not all accreditation is equal. Accreditation from the wrong source can be just as bad as no accreditation at all. In order to ensure that your online high school’s credentials are coming from the right place, make sure that its accrediting agency is approved by the State Department of Education or by the US Department of Education.
What if my school isn’t accredited?
If you choose a school that isn’t accredited, you may find that many businesses and schools won’t accept your online high school diploma. It may be difficult to convince employers and colleges to take your diploma seriously, particularly if it is in a traditional subject (math, English, history, etc.) If your diploma is in a less traditional subject, one which most schools do not offer, it may be easier for employers to accept your degree.
It also helps to make sure your school is registered with the appropriate State agency; for example the State Department of Education and membership to the Better Business Bureau is also helpful to ensure quality and legitimacy for an online high school diploma program. |