Institutional Accreditation

What is accreditation?

Accreditation is a voluntary evaluation process that colleges and universities undergo to ensure they meet specific higher education and organizational requirements. Accrediting agencies examine each institution's academic programs, financial condition, governance/administration, admissions and student services personnel, resources, student academic achievement, among other areas. It’s an indicator than an institution or program meets standards of quality and that there is a commitment to continuously seek ways to enhance the quality of education and training provided.

Why is accreditation important to you?

Accreditation assures that you are enrolled at an institution approved by the region's accrediting associations. In the United States, regional accreditation is considered the most rigorous and highest level of accreditation an institution can achieve. The credits you earn at an accredited institution may be submitted to other accredited institutions for transfer acceptance, if they are appropriate to the designated curriculum. It also means that the degree you earn is fully recognized throughout the nation.

The universities and community colleges featured on this website are accredited by:

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
1866 Southern Lane
Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097
Phone: 404-679-4500

Website: www.sacscoc.org

All Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology are accredited by:

Council on Occupational Education (COE)
7840 Roswell Road
Building 300, Suite 325
Atlanta, GA 30350
Phone: 1-770-396-3898
Website: www.council.org

Program-specific Accreditation

Academic programs may also be accredited through programmatic or "specialized" accrediting agencies. These programs typically lead to a certification or licensure. Graduating from an accredited program provides greater flexibility in the types of jobs you can apply for and enhances your career mobility. Many employers and state agencies require job candidates to have program-specific accreditation for professional level positions.