Marlborough, MA, May 6, 2008
Accreditation for Allied Health Schools and Programs
Accreditation is a process of peer review of educational institutions by independent, non-governmental, accrediting agencies to assure the quality of the institution and the programs that it offers. Understanding the accreditation status of educational institutions that offer allied health programs of study is a critical part of the school/program evaluation process for any prospective student.
There are two types of accreditation in the United States:
For most schools offering allied health education programs there will typically be both an institutional and one or more specialized accreditations. Sometimes the specialized accrediting body can provide both institutional and program accreditation.
It is very important for a prospective student to obtain their education from an accredited institution/program that is recognized by the U.S Department of Education (USDE). It improves the availability of financial aid and acceptance of the education by potential employers (see "Checking Accreditation Status" later in this document).
Regional, National, and Specialized Institutional Accrediting Agencies
The following regional, national, or specialized accrediting agencies may provide accreditation to schools that provide allied health programs of study:
Please note: All of the above are recognized by the USDE.
Specialized or Programmatic Accreditation for Allied Health Education Programs
The following accrediting bodies provide accreditation for the indicated areas of allied health study:
Note:
Also see: List of all accrediting organizations recognized by CHEA or USDE
The U.S. Department of Education offers a database that allows individuals to check on the accreditation status of a specific institution and program of study. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation also has a similar database. Never simply take the word of the institution. It is important to check the most current status of an educational institution's accreditation. See: