What is an Accredited Degree?
An accredited degree is recognized for meeting specific educational standards, which have been set by an accrediting agency. Choosing an accredited degree ensures its acceptance by other recognized institutions and organizations and potential employers.
Overview On Accredited Degrees
An accredited degree meets certain quality standards, which are honored by other reputable institutions and organizations. When choosing a degree program, accreditation should be a top priority. A non-accredited degree could end up being worth little or nothing if future employers do not recognize it.
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 Information On Accredited Degree Programs
| Prerequisites | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Online Availability | Full, partial, and blended accredited online programs are available |
| Degree Field | Varies depending on school and career goals |
| Programs | Undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs are available |
| Possible Careers | Varies depending on degree and career requirements |
| Median Salary (2021)* | $127,990 (Lawyers) |
| Job Outlook (2021-2031)* | 10% (Lawyers) |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
What Is Accreditation?
Accreditation can be either institutional or specialized. Institutional accreditation covers all programs offered by a school, while specialized accreditation covers specific programs within a school. Some schools that are accredited institutionally also house programs that hold specialized accreditation, so it's possible to earn a degree that's been doubly accredited. An example would be earning a law degree from Harvard. The university holds accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, and its law program has American Bar Association accreditation.
In addition to verifying a degree's accreditation, it's important to determine the validity of the accrediting agency. Don't take a school's accreditation claims at face value. Make sure the accrediting agency is reputable by checking it against a list compiled by the U.S. Department of Education (www.ed.gov). Accrediting agencies fall into one of 3 categories:
- Regional
- Nationally recognized
- Programmatic/specialized
How to Check a Degree's Accreditation
To find out if your chosen degree is accredited, seek accreditation information on the school's website. If you can't find the information online, call the school directly. Once you have the name of the accrediting agency, make sure your degree program is on the agency's list of accredited degrees. Alternately, search for the school or program's accreditation using the U.S. Department of Education's database.
