Why College Approval Matters

The Importance of Accreditation

College approval, or accreditation, is a critical process. It serves as a stamp of approval indicating that a college meets certain standards. Without it, students cannot access federal aid such as grants or loans. Recently, six Southern states have decided to create their own accreditation group, sparking debates about politics and education.

The Catalyst for Change

The shift began when the Trump administration made it easier for colleges to switch accreditation groups. They also prohibited accreditation groups from using diversity rules. Critics argue this is a political move that could weaken the value of college degrees. Supporters, however, see it as a way to break free from old, bureaucratic systems.

State-Led Initiatives

Florida and North Carolina have passed laws mandating that public colleges switch accreditation groups. This has led to the formation of a new group called the Commission for Public Higher Education. The goal is to focus on student success and measurable outcomes, rather than just bureaucracy.

Leadership and Vision

Dan Harrison, leading this new group, compares accreditation to the plumbing of higher education—essential but not glamorous. He believes public universities share more in common with each other than with private schools in their own states. The new group aims to be nationwide, not just regional.

The Road Ahead

The new group is still in its early stages and will take about five to seven years to be fully operational. In the meantime, colleges will need to maintain their old accreditation to avoid losing federal aid. The new group is also focusing on assembling review teams made up of public university leaders.

Acknowledging the Need for Change

Stephen Pruitt, president of the old accreditation group SACSCOC, acknowledges the need for change. He points out flaws in the old system, such as slow turnaround times and excessive paperwork. He believes competition is good and that the old system needs to adapt and improve.

The Future of Accreditation

The big question is what this means for the future of college accreditation. Will it lead to better education, or will it just create more bureaucracy? Only time will tell.