I would say it gives your institution more credibility to say the least. Also, it let's your student body know that there is an outside agency holding your institution to a higher level of excellence.
In the initial Admissions meeting we have with all interested prospects we (Admission Advisors) go over all programatic information. This includes the accreditation of the school, what type and through which accrediting body. We also speak about the history of the school, when it was established, the year of inception at our particular location and a bit about the people who founded the school. We also give information about the other locations we have and student services we offer.
We are "shopped often" and on one occassion it was brought to our attention that while speaking about accreditation we are not allowed to speak about other schools in the area with the same accreditation. The reason for this is while the Admissions Advisor was attempting to make the student understand the level of accreditation we have, we do not represent any other school in the area and we can only speak about the school we represent. For example, if noting that a well known school in the area holds the same type of accreditation we do, this could be a mistake and mislead the student. Expecially if that other school no longer has the same type of accreditation we thought it did due to losing it or never obtaining it in the first place.
I believe that it shows that we are proud of programs and what we do everyday. That we care enough to have approved syllabus and instructors that are qualified. I also think that since there are other companies in our city that are not accredited, it sets us apart from the rest.
As an Admissions Rep. with Fortis Online we have seen many advantages of being accredited. Many of our students are eligible for tuition reimbursement through their current employers. In order to gain tuition reimbursement, employers are requiring that their employees obtain their degree from an accredited institution. As an accredited institution, we've been able to help these students further their education by earning an Associate's Degree while receiving reimbursement from their employer.
I feel that being Accredited keeps us focused on our mission and also keeps everyone in check and hopefully on their A game.
I also believe that having that additional factor sets us appart from the other guy's.
Being accredited adds value to our school. For example, students want to attend a school that is acredited. This is very important for our school reputation and recognition.
Our school carries alot of wieght just by name alone. With us being accredited. We have more students and we get alot good responces back fro employers also.
Most of our students needs financial aid,grants ect.
We would not be here for students.
Bob
Today's students are very knowledgeable about accreditation and what the individual is looking for in a school. They are aware of the importance of certain accreditations either for the school and/or program and as such, this is a question that is often asked. It is the responsibility of school officials and the like to know the proper accreditation.
Other then being able to receive Financial aid, our accreditation is helping our studnets upon receiveng a diploma from our school to contunue education further in the field that they are interested and being more marketable upon graduation since many fields require graduation from accredited institution.
I think accreditation adds to the credibility of your institution. It also adds to the standardization of policies and procedures from campus to campus.
Being accredited enables students to know the program is legitimate. As a practical nursing school, accreditation is necessary.
I think that accreditation can help a program appear more reputable. If you are working for an accredited institution, you should be able to discuss accreditation with potential students and their families. I have seen many students with the misconception that accreditation is tied directly to whether or not credits would transfer.
It ensures that when I am explaining the effectiveness of the programs, a valid 3rd party has also determined their effectiveness as well.
Level of Integrity and sometimes a competitive advantage over schools who are not accredited in the students eyes
One of the most common questions I get is whether or not our school is accredited. I'm glad to be able to tell students we are because it gives their degree value. They feel better knowing that the school has met standards and the fact that they will be eligible to apply for federal funding is huge.
It can set you above some other schools who aren't accredited in the prospective students eyes...........
My favorite part of interviewing prospective students is when they question our accredidation. Just the look of relief on thier faces when I explain the ACICS and what it means to be a accredited makes my day.
When I present the information in the high school setting, it speaks volumes for staff, faculty as well as students to trust us due to our accredidation.
Being accredited adds a sense of professionalism to the curriculum.
I feel my school has many advantages for being accredited. One that really stands out to me would have to be the structure that accreditation provides in students getting truthful and honest information to make informed decisions. I also feel accreditation helps with graduates being able to find employment after graduation.
