ACCREDITATION NATION: The Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs, created by the U.S. Department of Education, allows the public to easily view colleges’ accreditation statuses. Now users can engage with the tool to get data on accredited schools, internships, residencies, and other programs in hopes of bringing more transparency to all institutional stakeholders. Schools and programs with accreditation issues are flagged directly on the website.
Following a plan issued by the Obama administration last fall, the department laid out rules for accrediting agencies who took probation or revocation actions against colleges. The rules require a streamlined process for reporting accreditations, clear standards and indicators, and greater emphasis on student outcomes.