Accreditation Criteria for Traditional Schools
- Curriculum Development and Quality:
Institutions must offer a well-rounded curriculum that is continuously updated to reflect current knowledge and practices in the field. Courses should be designed to meet the educational needs of students and prepare them for future challenges.
- Faculty Qualifications and Professional Development:
Faculty members should possess appropriate academic credentials and professional experience. Institutions must also provide opportunities for ongoing professional development to ensure faculty remain at the forefront of their fields.
- Student Support Services:
Schools must offer robust student support services, including academic advising, counseling, and extracurricular activities, to foster student growth and development both inside and outside the classroom.
- Infrastructure and Learning Environment:
The physical infrastructure, including classrooms, laboratories, and libraries, should be conducive to learning. Facilities must be safe, accessible, and equipped with the necessary resources to support high-quality education.
- Student Performance and Outcomes:
Institutions should have mechanisms in place to assess and improve student performance. This includes tracking graduation rates, employment outcomes, and student satisfaction, ensuring that educational goals are being met.
Programs Eligible for Accreditation
- Undergraduate Degree Programs:
Traditional four-year degree programs across various disciplines that meet AHEAC’s standards for academic rigor, faculty expertise, and student support.
- Graduate Degree Programs:
Master's and doctoral programs designed to provide advanced knowledge and skills in specific fields, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles and specialized careers.
- Vocational and Technical Education Programs:
Programs focused on practical skills and career-specific training, preparing students for immediate employment in various industries.
- Teacher Education and Certification Programs:
Programs designed to train and certify educators, ensuring they meet the professional standards required to teach in schools and educational institutions.
- Specialized and Professional Programs:
Programs in fields such as law, medicine, engineering, and business, which require accreditation to validate their adherence to industry standards and practices.
Accreditation Criteria for Online Schools
- Digital Infrastructure and Accessibility:
Online institutions must have a robust digital platform that supports seamless access to course materials, interactive learning, and student support services, ensuring that all students, regardless of location, can fully participate in their education.
- Course Design and Delivery:
Courses should be designed specifically for online delivery, incorporating multimedia, interactive elements, and assessments that engage students and enhance their learning experience.
- Faculty Training for Online Education:
Instructors must be trained in online teaching methodologies and technologies, ensuring they can effectively engage with students and deliver high-quality education in a virtual environment.
- Student Engagement and Retention:
Online schools must implement strategies to maintain student engagement and reduce dropout rates. This includes regular communication, interactive assignments, and support services tailored to online learners.
- Data Security and Privacy:
Institutions must have strong data security measures in place to protect student information and ensure privacy. Compliance with relevant laws and regulations regarding online education is essential.
Programs Eligible for Accreditation
- Online Undergraduate Degree Programs:
Fully online bachelor's programs that meet AHEAC’s standards for quality, accessibility, and student outcomes, offering flexibility without compromising academic rigor.
- Online Graduate Degree Programs:
Advanced degree programs delivered online, providing professionals with the opportunity to further their education while balancing work and personal responsibilities.
- Certificate and Diploma Programs:
Short-term programs focused on specific skills or knowledge areas, designed to enhance career prospects or provide continuing education opportunities.
- Continuing Education and Professional Development:
Online courses aimed at professionals seeking to update their skills, gain new certifications, or fulfill continuing education requirements in their field.
- Hybrid Learning Programs:
Programs that combine online and in-person learning, offering the flexibility of online education with the benefits of traditional classroom interaction and hands-on experience.
