Some FAQs on Distance Learning, Accreditation, and College Degrees

What is Distance Learning?

Distance learning can be referred to any learning system or program managed. Students and teachers are geographically located at a distance. Distance learning is conducted through the Internet, mail, videotapes, audiotapes, etc.

What is accreditation?

Accreditation is an assurance. It is a type of authorization given by an authorized government institute. The reason for accreditation is to give online degrees required recognition. In addition to this, it is also to ensure the quality of the program being offered.

What are the types of accreditation?

Regional accreditation boards provide the most recognized form of accreditation. For instance, Harvard and Ohio universities are regionally accredited. Stanford is also regionally accredited.

Whenever you come across people asking you whether you have attended an accredited university or not, they generally refer to regionally accredited universities. Hence, regional accreditation is the most preferred form of accreditation.

What is the significance of accreditation?

Accreditation provides a public record of your degree. A degree from an accredited institute is recognized by employers and companies all over the world.

What are the six regional institutes for accreditation?

There are about six authorized units responsible for accrediting online degrees. Namely they are:

• NASC – Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges
• NCA – North Central Association of Schools and Colleges
• NEASC – New England Association of Schools and Colleges
• SACS – Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
• WASC – Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• MSA – Middle States Association

What is programmatic accreditation?

At times, the special departments in accredited universities require special accreditation. The teachers licensing board requires a degree from accredited universities. Also, to accredit certain programs, the government requires a college to be accredited.

What do I need to know about State approved Universities?

Presently, there has been an enormous increase in State approved Universities. Many states have a test which a university has to pass, in order to be approved.

This process however is not equivalent to accreditation. It simply means that the college is approved to do business. The standard and quality of the degree is not ensured.

What do I need to know about diploma mills?

Diploma mills are also known as Degree mills. Diploma mills are degree generating companies. They are the companies, which sell fake diplomas and degrees. This means that it is just a piece of paper, without teaching a student a single word.

The above given FAQs comprise of basic information regarding distance learning. If you opt for an online degree, you should keep in mind the above points.