What Does It Mean if a College or University Is Accredited?

To be accredited, a college or university must meet certain requirements of educational quality. Accreditation is a process that each institution voluntarily undergoes that offers both self-evaluation and an independent, objective appraisal of the quality of education. 

 

Why Does Accreditation Matter?

Accrediting bodies determine if a college or university meets or exceeds minimum standards of quality. Accreditation also plays a role in a number of different questions, such as transfer credits, employer tuition reimbursement programs, the qualifications of a graduate as a potential employee, the eligibility of graduates to sit for certification exams and more.

It is especially important because many schools do not accept transfer credits from non-accredited colleges and universities or do not recognize degrees from non-accredited institutions for admission into master’s or doctoral programs.

 

Is Trevecca Accredited?

Yes, Trevecca Nazarene University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (often abbreviated "SACS"). SACS is the accrediting body for institutions in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Latin America and some other international sites.

Graduating from an accredited college or university is important to your future career. Potential employers are more likely to recognize your degree if you've attended an accredited school. It is also important that you've graduated from an accredited school if you're seeking admission into a graduate school. 

Who Decides If a College or University Is Accredited?

The U.S. Department of Education recognizes 14 national and regional accrediting bodies. The following are listed in alphabetical order:

  • Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
  • Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training
  • Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
  • Council on Occupational Education
  • Distance Learning Accrediting Commission
  • Higher Learning Commission
  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Middle States Commission on Secondary Schools
  • New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education
  • New York State Board of Regents, and the Commissioner of Education
  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
  • Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
  • Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior Colleges and University Commission