College President Appointed to DEAC Board of Governors
In a significant move, our institution has recently become involved with the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), a private, non-profit organization that accredits institutions offering distance education. This decision marks a continuation of our institution's long-standing tradition of pioneering online education, providing a rigorous education in a flexible and affordable online platform.
The DEAC, founded in 1926, holds recognition by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Over the years, our institution's accreditation by DEAC has been renewed three times since its initial approval in 2001, a testament to our commitment to meeting and exceeding the increasing standards set by the commission.
The benefits for our institution's faculty, staff, and students when accredited by DEAC are numerous. DEAC accreditation affirms that our institution meets nationally recognized standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, and institutional operations, ensuring rigorous academic quality. This quality assurance and academic rigor are crucial for maintaining the institution's reputation and attracting students.
One of the most significant advantages of DEAC accreditation is the access it provides to federal financial aid programs. Accredited institutions' students are eligible for federal student aid, making education more affordable and accessible. This is a significant advantage for our students, particularly those who may struggle financially.
Another benefit is the recognition of degrees and certificates from DEAC-accredited institutions. These credentials are respected by employers and licensing boards, reflecting the quality and substance of the education provided. This recognition can lead to better job opportunities for our graduates.
DEAC accreditation also helps increase the transferability of credits. While transfer policies vary, DEAC accreditation provides an evaluation of coursework based on content and equivalency rather than outdated distinctions between regional and national accreditation. This can make it easier for our students to transfer to other institutions if they so choose.
DEAC-accredited schools often specialize in flexible, career-focused education suited for working professionals, military members, and international students. This flexibility benefits our faculty and staff through innovative teaching models and supports student success.
Accreditation involves peer review and quality assurance processes that help institutions improve educational offerings. This institutional accountability and continuous improvement benefit our staff and faculty by fostering higher standards and better resources.
Accrediting organizations, including DEAC, are focused on making sure schools meet the highest educational and business standards. The accreditation process by DEAC aims to protect consumers and facilitate the evolution and improvement of schools.
Mr. Drummond, who has served on the MSA Board of Trustees and the Middle States Commission on Secondary Schools, has now been appointed to a voluntary DEAC Board role. This appointment is a continuation of his long track record of service and leadership in accreditation.
In summary, DEAC accreditation provides a framework of quality, accountability, and legitimacy that benefits our institution through institutional support and standard-setting, while offering our students affordability, recognized credentials, and flexible learning opportunities. This accreditation supports our institution’s mission to deliver credible distance education aligned with today’s learners’ needs.
In reference to the new DEAC accreditation, our institution's commitment to providing quality education extends beyond general news, delving into the realm of education-and-self-development. This accreditation offers numerous benefits, such as access to federal financial aid programs, recognition of degrees, and improved credit transferability, ensuring our students' success.
Moreover, the DEAC's focus on making schools meet the highest educational and business standards ensures our institution maintains its reputation for delivering credible distance education, aligning with the needs of today's learners. Thus, our institution's involvement with DEAC is not just news but a significant step towards improving general-news and fostering self-development opportunities for our faculty, staff, and students.
