Accreditation is a method for evaluating institutions of higher learning to ensure that they provide a quality education. Receiving accreditation indicates that an institution has met specific standards related to learning objectives, admission requirements, student services, faculty and quality of education. Standards are set by a peer review board made up of faculty members from other accredited colleges and universities.
Why is Accreditation Important?
Institutional accreditation means that you, employers, recruiters and other higher education institutions can be assured that the quality of the university and the education you receive has been rigorously evaluated and will adequately prepare you for the requirements of professional employment or ongoing studies.
Regional Versus National Accreditation
Most traditional higher education institutions in the United States are regionally accredited, which means they have been evaluated by one of the regional accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Regional accreditation is the most widely accepted form of accreditation.
National accreditation is typically reserved for career, vocational and trade schools.
Programmatic Accreditation
Specific programs can also be accredited, indicating that they meet the professional standards of that field or industry. While not always required, programmatic accreditation can provide you with an edge in the job marketplace.
Benedictine University holds both regional and programmatic accreditations.
The University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA). The HLC is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This federally recognized body provides assurance that Benedictine meets quality standards for educational performance.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and master's degree program in nursing at Benedictine University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).
The Master of Public Health (both online and on-campus) is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). It “assures quality in public health education and training to achieve excellence in practice, research and service, through collaboration with organizational and community partners.”