How do you compare and evaluate different accreditation systems for higher education?

1 Why accreditation matters

Accreditation matters for several reasons. First, it provides a signal of quality and credibility to students, employers, and other stakeholders. Accredited institutions and programs are more likely to offer relevant and up-to-date curricula, qualified faculty, adequate resources, and effective learning outcomes. Second, it facilitates mobility and recognition of qualifications across borders. Accredited institutions and programs are more likely to be accepted and recognized by other institutions, employers, and authorities in different countries or regions. Third, it promotes accountability and improvement of higher education. Accredited institutions and programs are subject to periodic review and evaluation, and are expected to maintain and enhance their quality and performance.

2 Types of accreditation

Accreditation is an important part of higher education, and there are different types that apply to different levels and aspects. Institutional accreditation evaluates the mission, vision, governance, policies, resources, facilities, services, and overall quality and effectiveness of the entire institution, such as a university or a college. Programmatic accreditation evaluates the objectives, curriculum, faculty, assessment, outcomes, and alignment with the standards and needs of the discipline or profession of a specific program, such as a degree or a certificate. Specialized accreditation evaluates the focus, scope, quality, and impact of a specialized unit, such as a school, a department, or a center, within the institution and the field.

3 Sources of accreditation

Accreditation status can be granted or recognized by different sources. National accreditation agencies are authorized by the government or the law to accredit institutions or programs within a country or a territory, and they typically follow national standards and criteria. Regional accreditation agencies are authorized by a group of countries or regions to accredit institutions or programs within a geographical area, and they usually follow regional standards and criteria. International accreditation agencies are authorized by a global or a sectoral body to accredit institutions or programs across the world, and they often follow international standards and criteria. These agencies may have different levels of recognition, prestige, and influence.

4 Criteria for comparison

When comparing and evaluating different accreditation systems for higher education, there are several criteria to consider. Scope and coverage refer to the range and diversity of institutions and programs that are eligible and subject to accreditation, as well as the extent and frequency of the accreditation process and cycle. Standards and indicators refer to the set of quality and performance expectations and measures used to assess and judge institutions and programs. Process and methods refer to the steps and procedures followed to conduct and complete the accreditation process, as well as the methods and tools used to collect and analyze evidence and information. Lastly, outcomes and impacts refer to the results and consequences of the accreditation process, as well as the benefits and challenges that accrue to institutions and programs, and to the higher education system and society.

5 Best practices and examples

When comparing and evaluating different accreditation systems for higher education, there are various best practices and examples that can be used as a reference. The European Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG) provide common principles and criteria to guide and harmonize quality assurance and accreditation practices in Europe. The CHEA International Quality Group (CIQG) is a network and platform that brings together accreditation and quality assurance agencies, institutions, and experts from around the world. Additionally, the INQAAHE Guidelines of Good Practice (GGP) are standards and recommendations that define and promote good practice in quality assurance and accreditation of higher education, and provide a basis for mutual recognition and collaboration among accreditation and quality assurance agencies worldwide.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?