How Can I Verify that an Online University is Accredited?
There are several ways to verify that an online university is accredited. Keep reading to learn about some of these options, and find out why accreditation is important.
How to Verify that an Online University is Accredited
Accreditation indicates that a school meets certain educational standards. By verifying that an online university is accredited, you also have some assurance that your college credits should transfer to another accredited school, should you choose to do so.
Discover Accredited Online Programs
Find the program that works best for you and apply today.
Southern New Hampshire University
You have goals. Southern New Hampshire University can help you reach them. Whether you need a bachelor's degree to get into a career or want a master's degree to move up in your current career, SNHU has an online program for you.
University of Maryland Global Campus
University of Maryland Global Campus provides affordable, achievable, and flexible pathways to a college degree for adult learners. With over 90 degrees and certificates, UMGC is built to fit your schedule and goals.
University of North Carolina
The University of North Carolina offers a wide range of online programs designed for working adults. Earn your degree from a nationally recognized institution with flexible scheduling and strong academic support.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers more than 300 online degree programs, certificates and courses. ASU Online delivers the same rigorous academic programs as on campus, with the flexibility you need to succeed.
Important Facts About Accredited Online Universities
| Degrees | Certificate, Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, PhD |
| Degree Field | Online degrees are now available in almost any subject, including but not limited to: Chemistry, Nursing, Physical Therapy, and Economics |
| Certification | In order to become accredited, universities may apply to any one of the federally-recognized accreditation programs |
| Work Environment | Online |
Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a national accrediting agency, DEAC is a private, nonprofit organization that exclusively accredits online schools. Through the DEAC website, you can search for accredited online schools by school name, type of school, state or country, and/or available topics of study.
College Navigator
The U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) maintains a database of around 7,000 accredited postsecondary institutions and programs on its College Navigator website. You can verify that an online university is accredited by entering the name of the school in the search engine. If the school appears in the search results, it's accredited by a recognized agency.
Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
As of 2015, the CHEA database listed more than 8,300 accredited postsecondary institutions. These schools are accredited by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or CHEA, whereas College Navigator only includes schools accredited by USDE-recognized agencies.
