Accreditation Matters - Academic Programs

Programmatic accreditation allows an academic institution to demonstrate a commitment to quality and to ensure that its degree programs are performing at the level required by the profession they serve. SAF accreditation is not a ranking system; rather, it is a form of quality assurance that declares to the professional community and to the world at large, that a degree program meets the quality standards set by the profession.

SAF accreditation applies to degree programs only, not departments, colleges, institutions, or individuals. In the United States, programmatic accreditation is voluntary. Many institutions choose SAF accreditation because it offers several benefits, such as peer-review, recognition of the program’s commitment to quality, and practical insights from the working professionals who review the programs. When a degree program becomes SAF-accredited, it demonstrates to students, parents, and employers that the program:

• Participates in a structured process to assess, evaluate, and improve quality.
• Involves faculty, staff, and students in the self-assessment and continuous improvement process.
• Focuses on learning outcomes.
• Produces graduates who are well prepared for the profession.
• Meets education standards for registration, licensing, and certification boards.