Function of Accreditation

Certifying that an institution or program has met established standards.

Assisting prospective students in identifying acceptable institutions.

Assisting institutions in determining the acceptability of transfer credits.

Helping to identify institutions and programs for the investment of public and private funds.

Protecting an institution against harmful internal and external pressure.

Creating goals for self-improvement of weaker programs and stimulating a general raising of standards among educational institutions.

Involving the faculty and staff comprehensively in evaluation and planning.

Establishing criteria for professional certification and licensure and for upgrading courses offering such preparation.

Providing one of several considerations used as a basis for determining eligibility for Federal financial aid assistance.