Ready to attend a post-secondary institution? Not sure which one to pick? While there are many things you should look for in an education, accreditation is one of the most important. This article will review how to identify accreditation and what the standards of accreditation are. Plus, Florida National University (FNU) is fully accredited. So, how do you know if a university is accredited?
How Do I Know if a University is Accredited?
To determine if a university is accredited, follow these steps:
Step #1: Check the University’s Website
Accredited universities typically provide information about their accreditation status on their website. Look for a dedicated section called “Accreditation,” “About Us,” or “Institutional Information.”
Step #2: Verify with Accrediting Agencies
Accrediting agencies assess universities to ensure they meet academic, administrative, and ethical standards. Recognized agencies are approved by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Visit the accrediting agency’s website. Examples of reputable agencies include:
• Regional Accreditation (e.g., Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges – SACSCOC, Middle States Commission on Higher Education – MSCHE).
• National Accreditation (e.g., Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges – ACCSC).
• Programmatic Accreditation (specific to certain fields like nursing, business, or law).
Look for a searchable database or directory of accredited institutions. Search for the university to verify its status. Double-check if the accrediting agency is recognized by ED or CHEA by reviewing their list of approved agencies.
Step #3: Use the Department of Education’s Database
The Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP) is a free tool provided by the U.S. Department of Education.
1. Visit the database.
2. Enter the name of the university to check its accreditation status.
3. The results will provide details about the accrediting agency, the type of accreditation, and its validity. This database makes sure the institution meets national educational standards and is authorized to operate.
Step #4: Check CHEA’s Website
The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) also maintains a list of recognized accrediting bodies and accredited institutions.
• Visit the CHEA website (chea.org).
• Use their Institutional Database or Recognized Accreditor Search to locate Florida National University.
• CHEA often focuses more on academic quality and standards, making it an essential step in verifying legitimacy.
Step #5: Research State Licensing
In addition to accreditation, universities are often licensed to operate by their state’s Department of Education.
• Search for the institution in the state licensing database or the state’s higher education commission/department website.
• Keep in mind that state licensing ensures legal operation but does not guarantee academic quality. Accreditation remains the gold standard for evaluating the institution’s reputation.
For instance, Florida National University is licensed by the state of Florida and is accredited by a recognized agency. These credentials confirm both legal operation and academic credibility.
Why is Accreditation Important for a University?
There are many reasons to check whether a university is accredited. Some reasons include:
Ensures Quality Education
Accreditation validates that a university provides an education that meets established standards of quality and rigor. This includes that an accredited university offers well-structured programs that align with industry and academic expectations. Professors and instructors are qualified, experienced, and continually updated on teaching and research methods. Libraries, laboratories, technology, and other resources meet the needs of students for effective learning. Plus, accredited institutions are evaluated on their ability to provide career guidance, counseling, and academic support. Without accreditation, there is no guarantee that the institution meets these benchmarks, leaving students at risk of receiving a subpar education.
Facilitates Credit Transfers
When transferring from one institution to another, accredited universities typically only accept credits from other accredited schools. This is because accreditation makes sure the coursework meets standardized academic levels. Plus, it confirms that students have learned material equivalent to what the new institution offers. If you attend a non-accredited institution, you risk losing credit for completed courses, which could delay your graduation or increase educational costs.
Provides Access to Federal Financial Aid
In the U.S., students at accredited institutions are eligible for federal financial aid, including:
• Pell Grants
• Federal Work-Study Programs
• Federal Student Loans
Accreditation is a federal requirement for funding because taxpayer dollars should be spent to support institutions that offer legitimate educational value. Without access to federal aid, students often struggle to afford tuition and related expenses.
Enhances Employment Opportunities
Many employers require job applicants to have degrees from accredited institutions. This is especially true for government jobs and corporate positions where degrees are essential for professional licensing or certifications. An accredited degree signals to employers that you have completed a recognized program with rigorous academic and professional training and that your education is consistent with national or industry standards. Without accreditation, your degree may be considered invalid, making it harder to secure employment.
Meets Licensure and Certification Requirements
In fields like healthcare, education, law, and engineering, accreditation is often a prerequisite for licensure or certification. For example:
• Physical Therapy: Graduates must complete a program accredited by bodies like the Commissions on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) to sit for the NPTE exam.
• Teaching: State teaching boards typically require degrees from regionally or nationally accredited universities.
If your program or institution is not accredited, you may not be eligible to work in your chosen profession.
Promotes Continuous Improvement
Accredited universities undergo regular reviews and evaluations, which ensure they maintain high standards. This ongoing process encourages institutions to adapt to advancements in technology, pedagogy, and industry demands. It also holds universities accountable for addressing weaknesses and improving student outcomes. For students, this means their education is not only current but also aligned with future job market needs.
Builds Institutional Reputation
Accreditation helps universities gain credibility and attract students, faculty, researchers, and partnerships. A strong accreditation status reassures prospective students of the institution’s quality. Top-tier faculty are more likely to join accredited institutions that prioritize academic integrity. Plus, accredited universities are more likely to collaborate with other schools and organizations, offering students opportunities like study-abroad programs, internships, and research initiatives. Institutions with a strong reputation are more likely to open doors for their students in professional and academic settings.
Aligns with International Standards
Accredited universities often follow international educational standards, making their degrees more likely to be recognized abroad. This is especially important for students pursuing graduate studies at foreign institutions or Professionals seeking work opportunities overseas. Global recognition makes sure that your credentials are valued across borders, offering greater mobility and career flexibility.
Accreditation is not just a bureaucratic process; it plays a vital role in ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that meets their academic, professional, and personal goals. It protects students, validates institutions, and upholds the integrity of higher education. When choosing a university, always prioritize accreditation as a key factor in your decision-making process.
Is Florida National University Accredited?
Yes, Florida National University is accredited. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award diplomas, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s degrees. SACSCOC is a recognized regional accrediting body, which ensures that FNU meets high academic and operational standards.
What are the Standards of the SACSCOC?
The SACSCOC holds universities to rigorous standards to mandate quality education and institutional effectiveness. These standards are outlined in their Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement and cover several areas critical to higher education institutions.
Here is a summary of the key standards:
Institutional Mission
The university must have a clear, publicly stated mission that aligns with its academic offerings and the needs of its students and community. The mission must guide the institution’s planning, policies, and practices.
Governance and Administration
The institution must have a governing board (e.g., Board of Trustees) that is independent and responsible for establishing policies, ensuring the institution’s integrity, and protecting it from undue external influence. Qualified administrators, including the president and academic officers, must manage the institution effectively.
Academic Programs
Academic programs must be rigorous, coherent, and aligned with the institution’s mission. Programs should include ongoing assessments to measure student achievement and improve outcomes. Undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs must reflect appropriate levels of depth, breadth, and rigor. A strong general education curriculum makes sure students develop critical skills, such as communication, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving.
Faculty
The institution must employ qualified faculty with appropriate credentials (e.g., advanced degrees in their teaching discipline) or demonstrated expertise. Faculty must actively contribute to curriculum development, teaching, research, and service.
Student Achievement
Universities must monitor and demonstrate student success through retention rates, graduation rates, job placements, licensure exam pass rates, and other performance indicators.
Institutional Effectiveness
Institutions must engage in continuous planning and assessment to improve programs, services, and operations. Assessment processes should involve measurable objectives and documented outcomes.
Student Support Services
Universities must provide a range of support services to promote student success, including:
• Academic advising
• Career services
• Counseling
• Disability services
• Libraries and learning resources
These services must be accessible and aligned with the institution’s mission and the needs of its students.
Financial Stability and Resource Management
The institution must demonstrate financial stability and sustainability to support its mission and programs. Proper budgeting, fiscal controls, and external audits are required.
Physical and Technological Resources
Facilities, equipment, and technology must support the institution’s educational mission and provide an environment conducive to learning. Universities must regularly evaluate and update resources to remain competitive and effective.
Integrity and Transparency
Institutions must operate with integrity and adhere to ethical practices in governance, academics, and operations. Transparent policies and practices regarding admissions, tuition, financial aid, and institutional performance are required.
Policies and Procedures
Universities must have clearly defined and publicly available policies for admissions, transfer of credit, grading, and degree completion. Policies must be consistently applied and evaluated.
Compliance with Federal and State Regulations
Institutions must comply with all applicable laws, including those related to Title IV federal financial aid programs, student privacy (FERPA), and civil rights.
Continuous Quality Improvement (Quality Enhancement Plan – QEP)
Universities must develop a Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) focused on improving specific areas of student learning and success. The QEP reflects the institution’s commitment to continuous quality improvement.
Substantive Change Policy
Institutions must notify and, in some cases, seek approval from SACSCOC before making significant changes (e.g., adding degree programs, merging with another institution, or expanding campuses).
Final Thoughts
SACSCOC accreditation ensures that institutions like Florida National University provide a high-quality education, maintain ethical practices, and are accountable for their performance. Accreditation by SACSCOC reflects a university’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in higher education.
Eager to Learn More?
Florida National University offers a variety of programs that range from certificates to Master’s degrees across six divisions: Allied Health, Business, English as a Second Language, Humanities and Liberal Arts, Nursing, and Social and Behavioral Sciences. FNU has been opening doors for students to the future since 1982.
Contact us today to learn more about our accreditation, licenses, and approvals.
