There are several regional organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education that accredit postsecondary institutions within the United States. It is extremely important that you attend an accredited institution. In addition, we recommend that you consider selecting programs that are accredited. We also recommend that prior to enrolling in any program you double check the program's accreditation status with the school and accrediting body, as accreditation is occasionally withdrawn or modified.

High School Accreditation
Most public schools are accredited.  But, as more and more online schools are launched, it is important to check the accreditation status of a school via the U.S. Department of Education's accreditation search. The National Association of Independent Schools can help provide guidance about accreditation status of private schools in the U.S. 

University Accreditation
The following regional organizations are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit postsecondary institutions within the United States:

• Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Institutions of Higher Education
• New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Technical and Career Institutions
• North Central Association of Colleges and Schools The Higher Learning Commission
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities

Engineering, Computing, and Engineering Technology Accreditation
In the United States, engineering, computing, and engineering technology programs are accredited by ABET, Inc. If you choose to attend a program that is not ABET accredited, you should be sure that the university is regionally accredited.

Accreditation of Medical Programs
The Liaison Committee on Medical Education is the nationally recognized accrediting authority for medical education programs leading to the M.D. degree in U.S. medical schools. The LCME is sponsored by the Association of American Medical Colleges and the American Medical Association. View programs...

Accreditation of Nursing Programs
In the United States, there are two nursing organizations that accredit schools of nursing: the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (ASN, BSN, MSN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (BSN, MSN). Schools may choose which organization will accredit them and can have accreditations from both organizations. View programs...

Accreditation of Dental Programs
The American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation is the nationally recognized accrediting authority for dental education accreditation. Below is a listing of all accredited dental education programs in the United States. Graduates receive either a DDS or DMD degree.  View programs...

Accreditation of Veterinary Programs
Accreditation represents the highest standard of achievement for veterinary medical education in the United States. Institutions that earn accreditation confirm their commitment to quality and continuous improvement through a rigorous and comprehensive peer review. There are 28 colleges in 26 States that meet accreditation standards set by the Council on Education of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). View programs...

Additional Online Resources

• Career Cornerstone Center University Listings
• Accreditation.org