How to Find the Accreditation for an Online University

Online universities offer students the opportunity to complete certificate or degree programs on their own schedule and at the location they choose. The first step for many students searching for an online university is to locate schools that are accredited by a reputable accreditation agency. Read on to learn how to start your research and find the best accredited online university.

How to Locate Accreditation Agencies for Online Universities

Locating accreditation agencies on the internet begins with a search using keywords, such as online, distance education, accredited colleges or universities. The accreditation agencies found during this search should be non-profit, private institutions, as well as approved by the United States Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Most online universities list the accreditation information on their website and this can be confirmed through the USDE or CHEA websites. The CHEA (www.chea.org) offers a search for online accredited programs, which can be useful for finding a variety of universities or ensuring a specific school is accredited by a reputable agency.
Many online universities that are accredited receive federal funding, which assists students in the financial aid process. Finding an accredited online university is also important for students who plan to transfer or pursue an advanced degree once they finish the online degree or certificate program.

List of Accreditation Agencies

There are not currently any specific accreditation institutions for online universities; however, there are over 55 regional and national accreditation agencies. Students may consider using the following sample of accreditation agencies approved by the USDE and CHEA in their search for online universities:

• Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Distance Education and Training Council, Accrediting Commission
• American Psychological Association, Committee on Accreditation
• National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission
• Teacher Education Accreditation Council, Accreditation Committee
• American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education
• National Association of Schools of Theatre, Commission on Accreditation
• American Academy for Liberal Education
• Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
• Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges