how to accredit online course usa

In the U.S., legitimate online degree programs are accredited by agencies recognized by either the Department of Education or the nonprofit Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). So yeah… government stuff.

Full Answer

Who accredits online degree programs?

Who accredits online degree programs? Legitimate online degree programs are accredited by agencies recognized by either the Department of Education or the nonprofit Council for Higher Education Accreditation, known as CHEA. how to tell if an online program is accredited.

Where can I find accrediting bodies for online courses?

These are broad accrediting bodies, but you can also go directly to the source. For instance, the Association for Training & Development offers accredited online courses for instructional design / e-learning development.

Do you need accreditation to run an online course?

Gaining accreditation for your online course isn’t always necessary, but could help to increase your visibility and overall value if it does become accredited. Given how easy it is for anyone to create an online course, this is a perfect way to differentiate from your competition – not to mention add a premium price to your offering.

Are there any for-profit online colleges that are accredited?

For-profit online programs, experts say, are more likely to have national rather than regional accreditation – though some, including the University of Phoenix and Capella University, are regionally accredited. important facts about online, for-profit education. ] 8. How can I tell if an online program is accredited?

What certificates can I get online?

Colleges and universities offer many certificate programs online. Common options include certificates in IT, healthcare, and law enforcement. Stude...

What certificate jobs pay the most?

Many trade jobs offer above-average salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), construction workers earn a median annual salary o...

What is the quickest certification to get?

Learners can complete some online certificates in 3-12 months. Students with some foundational coursework can earn certificates faster.

Paths to Accreditation

When it comes to accreditation there are generally two ways you can go. You can choose the university route or the accredited professional development route. This can get confusing though since a professional development route can be offered by a university. But for simplicity, think of these as separate.

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What is the difference between programmatic and institutional accreditation?

Online learners should ensure that a program has both institutional and programmatic accreditation, says Judith Eaton, president of CHEA. Institutional accreditation applies to the entire university, while programmatic or "specialized" accreditation focuses on particular degrees, departments or schools – including those offered as online programs.

What accreditation agencies are there for distance education?

When it comes to an institution's overall accreditation, prospective students might come across either regional accreditation agencies such as the Higher Learning Commission and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education or national accrediting bodies, such as the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.

What is accreditation in education?

Accreditation is a process conducted by an outside authority to ensure that a school and degree program meet certain standards of quality and rigor. Online, blended and on-campus degree programs can all be accredited.

What is institutional accreditation?

Institutional accreditation also ensures that students can receive federal financial aid, says Barbara Gellman-Danley, president of the Higher Learning Commission, which accredits colleges and universities in their entirety. Federal aid is generally available for online students as grants, loans and work-study. [.

What is a legitimate online degree?

Legitimate online degree programs are accredited by agencies recognized by either the Department of Education or the nonprofit Council for Higher Education Accreditation, known as CHEA. [.

Is regional accreditation reliable?

While both regional and national accreditation are reliable signs of a program's quality, Eaton says, more employers typically look for regional accreditation. Experts say it's also easier to transfer credits to and from a regionally accredited institution.

Is it smart to double check a school?

But it's always smart to double check, experts say. "Even good schools can sometimes do things, or have things happen, that may jeopardize their accreditation," Mathes says. It's not very common, she says, but it's important to ensure the program is in good standing.

What do I need to get a trade and manufacturing certificate?

Online Certificate Requirements. Trade and manufacturing certificates often require applicants to have at least a high school or GED diploma. Certificate programs related to computer technology may require the completion of specific foundation courses in math.

How many courses are required for a certificate program?

Certificate programs typically comprise 4-8 courses, which most learners complete in three months to a year. Students typically need only a high school diploma to enroll in an undergraduate certificate program.

What is computer information technology?

Several stand-alone schools offer online certificate programs in this field for students who want to start working in the computer technology field. Popular programs include certificates to become computer support specialists, programmers, and information security analysts.

Why are postsecondary certificates so popular?

Postsecondary certificates are a popular option, likely because they take significantly less time to complete than degrees. This guide explores the best online certificate programs and the reasons that certificates are so popular.

What is a certificate program?

Certificate programs typically offer career-oriented and skills-focused classes. Because of this, few courses transfer readily to an associate or bachelor’s program. However, some two-year community colleges accept certificate courses earned from an accredited program.

How long does it take to get a certificate online?

Many online certificate programs take only a year to complete, meaning graduates enter the workforce sooner than if they pursued a two-year associate or a four-year bachelor’s degree. Focused Learning. A certificate program allows students to develop a specific set of skills required in a job or industry.

What are the trades that require a certificate?

Many people associate certificate programs with trades like automotive repair, welding, and plumbing. Schools offer certificates in these fields but increasingly in other professional arenas as well, such as healthcare, computer technology, and education.

What is MOOCs online?

Massive Open Online Courses, commonly called MOOCs, are an extremely flexible way for people to take classes online. Enrollment is open and unlimited, which means anyone with internet access can take them, regardless of their qualifications or how many other people are enrolled. MOOCs are generally free, self-paced and cover a wide range of topics, making them a nice option for students who want a low-commitment way to give online learning a try.

What are community colleges and vocational schools?

Community colleges and vocational schools are known for providing affordable two-year degrees, professional training and other types of academic and professional credentials to local students . However, many community colleges and vocational schools also offer online courses that don’t require enrollment in a full degree or certificate program. These courses are a great option for students seeking online courses with more structure and community than MOOCs typically provide.

How long is a Portland Community College online course?

The six-week, instructor-led courses have predetermined start and end dates and interactive class discussions.

What is Massive Open Online Courses?

Massive Open Online Courses, commonly called MOOCs, are an extremely flexible way for people to take classes online. Enrollment is open and unlimited, which means anyone with internet access can take them, regardless of their qualifications or how many other people are enrolled.

What is a doctorate in education?

A doctorate in education trains college professors, higher education administrators, and K-12 educational leaders to shape the education field. With a doctorate, educators gain the leadership and research skills required...

What degree do you need to become a veterinarian technician?

While veterinarians must complete a doctorate in veterinary medicine , technicians typically earn a two-year degree or in veterinary...

What is a learning management system?

If you take a course through an online college or university, they may use a learning management system, which is a system to organize and house course materials. A learning management system can also be accessed through the web, and the technology requirements will be detailed by the school.