Why You Should Choose an Accredited Criminal Justice Program

For those interested in accredited criminal justice programs, career opportunities may be readily available upon graduation. Prospective students can choose institutions online, at traditional universities or local community colleges to complete their degrees. Criminal justice degree programs range from certificate programs to PhD degrees and can offer varying levels of careers.

What is accreditation?

The process of accreditation ensures the quality of education delivered by a school. The accreditation process assists institutions with improving all areas of instruction and guarantees excellence in education delivery. Obtaining accreditation is a sign that an institution is willing to continually assess its programs and faculty and provide a top-notch education for students.

How does a criminal justice program become accredited?

Institutions become accredited through a process that monitors and assess course presentation, faculty qualifications, cost, degree programs and student success. Several different programs offer accreditation to institutions, and the process of accreditation can take several years. Students should be cautious of programs that have attained accreditation in weeks or months, as this may represent an “accreditation mill”, and not be accredited through the US Department of Education.

How do I know an institution is accredited?

Most institutions have their accreditation on their website or public relations materials. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact an academic advisor at schools they are interested in to get more information on accreditation.

Will accreditation affect financial aid for a criminal justice degree program?

Yes, the accreditation of a program will affect potential financial aid. The federal government, and some state governments, will not provide funding for non-accredited institutions. Students who will be utilizing financial aid programs for their criminal justice program should contact financial advisors from schools they are interested in to ensure that the school is accredited and that financial aid can be obtained.

What if a criminal justice program is not accredited?

There are several reasons why a criminal justice program is not accredited. The program may be new, so the requirements for accreditation have not been met yet. A criminal justice degree program may be working toward accreditation. Should a criminal justice program not be accredited, a student should gain an understanding of why accreditation requirements have not been met. Students should use caution in entering a non-accredited program.

Who accredits institutions?

A variety of organizations provide accreditation for institutions. Common accreditation sources include:
• Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
• Distance Education Council, Accrediting Commission
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• New England Association of Schools and Colleges
• Southern Association of Schools and Colleges
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges

This is not a comprehensive list, so if a student questions their institution’s accreditation, they can contact the US Department of Education (www.ed.gov) for further information.