EDUCATION CONSUMER INFORMATION

LET'S BEGIN WITH THE FOLLOWING FACTS

READY TO GET INTO THE DETAILS?  OKAY, LET'S BEGIN...

Exactly What Is Accreditation and How is it Different from Certification?
Accreditation is essentially a statement of approval.  In the United States, if it is to have value, it must come from an independent association having attained its own approval from the United States Department of Education (USDE).  In the U.S., the government (USDE) does not accredit schools.  However, the USDE is in the business of approving the associations which do accredit schools (for the purpose of serving as gate keepers for Title IV Funding).  You must understand this if you are to properly understand accreditation.

Title IV Funding is the nearly $170 billion (and rising annually) congressionally approved annual money stream that flows from taxpayers to educational institutions that are accredited by an agency approved by USDE.  The reason that USDE approves accrediting agencies is to assure quality control over the flow of Title IV Funds.  The greater part of accreditation requirements is geared toward satisfying the USDE mandated standards that are specifically designed to safeguard the huge taxpayer investment in higher education.  Christian institutions that also have USDE recognized accreditation, must meet these requirements whether or not the institution participates in the Title IV Funding process (though most do participate).

FACTOID:  MONEY STILL OWED BY STUDENTS GIVEN THOUGH ACCREDITED SCHOOLS IN THE U.S. NOW STANDS AT JUST OVER $1-TRILLION!  AVERAGE ANNUAL COST OF ATTENDING A FOUR-YEAR PRIVATE COLLEGE IS $25,000.

Accrediting associations in the U.S. are not required to seek USDE recognition, but without it, the value of such accreditation is questionable, and schools they accredit are not eligible to receive Title IV Funds.  That is why schools promoting accreditation from sources not approved by the USDE are considered "unaccredited."  BEWARE: There are dozens of so-called accrediting agencies (some with very official sounding names), that are nothing more than a fraud designed to deceive.  This is because most consumers of higher education are stuck on the idea of accreditation, and are unaware that all not accreditation is equal.

EXCEPTION: Accrediting agencies (just like schools), must first operate according to accepted practices and attract a sufficient number of clients before they can petition the USDE for possible acceptance.  Unrecognized agencies that are in a petitioning status with USDE, and are operating openly within the general parameters set forth by USDE (though still not considered recognized), ought to be considered valid, but their members schools are still not qualified for Title IV Funds.

The following quote is taken from the web site of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).  "There are accrediting organizations that may not be recognized but are not accreditation mills. For example, the accreditor may be seeking recognition, but the process is not complete. Or the accreditor does not meet the requirements of CHEA or USDE for reasons that do not relate to quality."

Certification is also essentially a statement of approval, but significantly different from accreditation in several important ways.  Most importantly, certification is not tied to Title IV Funding.  Only USDE recognized accreditation qualifies institutions to receive such funding.  Certification is not generally recognized as being equivalent to accreditation since certification criteria is not geared toward satisfying the requirements for Title IV Funding.  Therefore, certifying agencies are not as well known, and their value not as widely appreciated. 

Legitimate certification is similar to legitimate accreditation in that it also involves voluntary peer review through private agencies accountable to their constituents and the public at large, but not to the federal government since Title IV Funding is not involved.  Much of the misunderstanding that arises between the two is due to the lack of consumer awareness, and the generally held belief that accreditation is the only standard for academic legitimacy (which it most certainly is not).  This is one reason why accreditation mills thrive while certification mills generally are not popular targets for scam artists.

Furthermore, certification is a term more often associated with professions, products, and processes.  For example, there are "Certified Financial Planners", "USDA Certified Agricultural Products", and "Procedures Certified" by certain medical associations.  Of course, the the term "accredited" is also used in many of these situations.  This is because the two terms often serve as synonyms.  However, when it comes to higher education, accreditation is tied to Title IV Funding and certification is not.  Schools may be accredited but not certified, certified and not accredited or both or neither.  The important thing is that the school not misrepresent itself.

Exactly What is an Accredited Degree?
This may come as a shock, but in point-of-fact, there is no such thing as an accredited degree.  Only schools or programs within schools are accredited.  Period!.  Look carefully at any degree earned from an accredited school, and you will not find one word that even suggests that it is an "accredited" degree.  If it does, you may be certain that the degree is bogus.  That's because degrees are not accredited.  You can earn a degree from an accredited school or program within a school, but you cannot earn an accredited degree from that same school.  It may seem like only a matter of semantics, but it much more.  You can earn a degree from either an accredited or unaccredited school, but the degree you earn is neither accredited nor unaccredited.  Here is an example (admittedly extreme, but it makes the point):  Sam Smith graduated from MYU before it was accredited.  His degree is from an unaccredited school.  Sam's son (Sam Jr.) graduated from MYU after it received accreditation.  Sam Jr. earned a degree from an accredited school.  Sam's grandson graduated from MYU during the time that it lost its accreditation.  Sam III earned a degree from an unaccredited school.  Sam's great grandson earned his degree from MYU after it regained its accreditation.  Sam IV earned a degree from an accredited school.  Now let's look back,  The fact that MYU was accredited when Sam Jr. attended, was of no consequence to Sam.  His degree was still earned at an unaccredited school.  Why?  Because there is no such thing as "grandfathering" when it comes to accreditation.  The same is true for Sam Jr. at the time MYU lost its accreditation.  Sam Jr. still earned a degree from an accredited school.  Why?  Because even though a school may lose its accreditation (it happens fairly often), there is no reverse of grandfathering.  The school will always be considered accredited at the time that it held accreditation, and unaccredited at the time it did not hold accreditation.  The bottom line, there is no such thing as an accredited degree.  One either earns a degree from an accredited or unaccredited school.  All accredited schools in the U.S. were at one time, unaccredited, and all accredited schools are subject to the loss of accreditation.

FACTOID:  U.S.D.E.. RECOGNIZED ACCREDITATION IS HUGELY EXPENSIVE TO ATTAIN, AND MAINTAIN.  ITS IS ARGUABLY THE MOST SIGNIFICANT FACTOR THAT DRIVES THE HIGH COST OF TUITION.

Are Schools Required to Obtain Recognized Accreditation?
No.  For the most part, accreditation in the U.S. is strictly voluntary.  Many states require, or provide for, a kind of "state approval."  However, this is not the same as accreditation.  There are hundreds of schools in the U.S. that operate as top-quality institutions with high academic standards and yet have elected to not seek accreditation.

The following quote is taken from the web site of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).  There are institutions that may not be accredited but are not degree mills. For example, the institution may be seeking accreditation, but the process is not complete. Or a legitimate institution may choose not to be accredited for reasons that do not relate to quality.

The following quote from the United States Department of Education makes the point. "It should be noted that some institutions have chosen not to participate in the federal student aid program and therefore do not have to be approved by an accrediting agency recognized by the Department. While these institutions do not appear on the Department's list, they may be legitimate schools. Stroup encouraged consumers and employers to use the list as an initial source of information and to investigate further whenever an institution does not appear on the list."  (February 1, 2005)

The former executive director of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (an accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education), as quoted in that agency's September 2005 quarterly publication stated that "There are hundreds of Bible Colleges and Seminaries in the United States and Canada that are offering good solid theological training, yet they are not accredited."

Of course, all schools in the U.S. attempting to seek recognized accreditation must first operate as an unaccredited school and provide sufficient proof of institutional credibility prior to applying.  All accredited schools in the U.S. were, at one time, unaccredited.  In fact, the common qualifying procedure for schools seeking recognized accreditation is the development of a "Self Study" through which the institution demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the accrediting agency, that it is operating in a manner sufficiently consistent with the criteria required for accreditation. On a practical level, this demonstrates that  an unaccredited school may operate at a level equivalent to that of an accredited school.  The very same logic can be applied to certification as well.

What Are Some Advantages of USDE Recognized Accreditation?

• Access to government sponsored or approved student loans and grants (Title IV Funds).

• Easier recognition for transfer of its credits to other accredited schools.

• Easier recognition of its degrees by other schools and organizations.

• Greater likelihood of acceptance of its students by other schools for further study.

• Greater probability of the recognition of its educational programs meeting the qualifications for some goals, requirements, and licenses.

What Are Some Disadvantages of USDE Recognized Accreditation?

• More difficult and restricted entrance requirements into its programs of study.

• Program requirements which may limit certain individuals or prevent them from being accepted into its programs.

• Significantly higher tuition and related costs for all programs of study.

• Less accommodating schedules and course offerings.

• Fewer options for the older or nontraditional student.

What Are Some Advantages of Not Having USDE Recognized Accreditation?

• Less difficult entrance requirements for desirable programs of study.

• Lower tuition and related costs making it possible to graduate without debt.

• More accommodating program schedules and course offerings making it possible for busy adults to study anywhere anytime.

• Unaccredited schools are likely to be more innovative and liberal in the development of specialized courses, unique study concepts, the use of emerging technology, and the design of nontraditional certificate and degree programs.  In this regard they are often pioneers and early adopters.

• Providing the school is properly dedicated to its mission, the student will have an opportunity to gain an education comparable to that offered at accredited schools for similar courses and programs, but at a fraction of the total cost.

What Are Some Disadvantages of Not Having USDE Recognized Accreditation?

• No access to government sponsored or approved student loans and grants (Title IV Funds).

• Transfer of credits earned may be more difficult.

• Acceptance of graduates by accredited schools for further study more difficult.

• The recognition of educational qualifications earned for meeting some goals may be problematic.

• Certain licenses and professional requirements may not permit the acceptance of degrees earned from unaccredited schools.

Does Recognized Accreditation Assure A Quality Education?
No.  Even though recognized accreditation is a very good indicator that a program meets acceptable standards, the quality of an education is still largely dependent upon the value of the course content, the background and competency of the instructor, and the willingness of the student to get the most out of the course.  It is quite possible to attend even a top-rated accredited school and obtain an inferior education.  No level of accreditation can force a professor to do her or his best, and no professor, however gifted and dedicated, can force a student to learn.  It's always possible for a less than sincere person to beat the system.

Can A Program Without Recognized Accreditation Provide A Quality Education?
Yes!  Again, since the quality of an education is largely dependent upon the value of the course content, the background and competency of the instructor, and the willingness of the student to get the most out of the course, it is quite possible to attend a well organized unaccredited school and receive a first-class education.  In fact, there is no reason why the level of learning between an accredited and unaccredited program offering similar courses and programs should not be comparable.  The honest student truly seeking to learn, will quickly discover whether the program is meeting the need.  If the course of study is meeting the need, and the student is doing her or his best, whether the school is accredited or not may be immaterial.

Beware of those who suggest that there is "no reason to attend an unaccredited school."  Such faulty logic suggests that there is no need for new schools; for the older and established schools to become accredited; and that there is no such thing as a school not wanting or needing to be accredited.  How so?  In order to become an accredited school, an unaccredited school must first demonstrate through a pattern of evidence [to the satisfaction of the accrediting agency], that it is operating in a manner sufficiently consistent with the criteria required for accreditation.  In other words, in order for any school to become accredited, there must be a sufficient period of time during which the school is unaccredited but operating as if it were accredited, before it can be accredited.  This cannot be done unless the school is enrolling and graduating students!  Furthermore, without the pressure from innovative and immerging institutions, competition would be stifled, resulting in fewer choices and even higher tuition.  The plain fact is that not all schools need to be accredited, because not all students (especially older students studying Christian ministry related subjects) need to study at an accredited institution.

Will a Degree Earned Through an Unaccredited School be Accepted and Considered Legitimate?
This depends upon what is meant by accepted and legitimate.  Here is the blunt truth.  There is a difference between a legitimate degree and a degree earned legitimately!  Depending on the law of any given state or country, even a cheap degree may be legally legitimate.  But was it legitimately earned?  A degree is legitimately earned providing the entrance requirements, course work, and completion requirements are appropriate for the degree awarded (whether it is earned through an accredited or unaccredited institution).

Will a Degree from an Unaccredited School be Accepted by My Church or Place of Employment?
While there certainly are some situations when only a degree from an accredited school can qualify one for certain positions and privileges, for the most part, you are judged and accepted on you, not the school from which you graduated.  Example: Are you already in ministry?  If so, when was the last time a member of your church asked you if you had a degree at all, much less if it was earned at an accredited school?

CAUTION!  Do not fall victim to the myth that earning a degree from an accredited school is a ticket to ministry success.  It is not.  Ministry is one of those places where what you do with what you know trumps everything else.  In fact, for those already serving in ministry, a degree from a highly credible though unaccredited school may be be the most logical choice.  We ought never to forget that especially in the Christian tradition, academic freedom is considered a cornerstone of religious liberty.  Of course, so is academic responsibility!  Therefore, any program of study leading to a ministry related degree ought to be both Biblically sound, and academically honest.

However, if you are concerned whether your church or place of employment will accept you with a degree earned through an credible though unaccredited school, you are strongly urged to ask!  Even in the case of degrees earned from accredited schools, there may be restrictions on what kind of degree is recognized, and what kinds of schools are considered acceptable.  For example, in some cases, denominations and ministries may not accept degrees from secular schools, or schools not affiliated with the group.

Will a Degree or Credits Earned Through an Unaccredited School be Accepted  by Other Schools?
First of all, it should be understood that no school is required to accept credits ore degrees from another school (accredited or unaccredited).  However, generally speaking, degrees earned through unaccredited schools will often be recognized by other unaccredited schools providing the school meets the standards of the receiving school, and the learning discipline is relevant.  On the other hand, most accredited schools will accept a limited number of students from unaccredited schools.  Such acceptance, when granted, is usually based on degree or credit relevancy, the coursework and degree requirements, and the background and ability of the person applying.  The bottom line...an accredited school may accept credits and degrees from an unaccredited school, but don't count on it!  If this is a real issue for you, ask first!

In the case of Master's, because of our commitment to educational excellence, credits and degrees earned a MISD have been accepted at many accredited, and high quality unaccredited institutions.  NOTE:  Most older adults who are returning to school for the purpose of gaining additional ministry training are not doing so with the goal of earning a lower-level degree at one school in order to go on for a higher-level degree at another school.

Why is Master's Certified, but not Accredited?
We  recognize and honor the value of legitimate academic and institutional peer review.  For this reason, Master's has sought and achieved certification with the Council of Private Colleges of America. The mission of the CPCA is to serve private faith based educational institutions through quality standards and practices.  The purpose of the CPCA is to promote quality faith based education, and provide support services for faith based educational institutions to accomplish their individual purpose and mission.  The CPCA represents member faith based educational institutions before government or other educational agencies, and provides certification to member faith based educational institutions through quality peer review and onsite certification visits verifying CPCA standards.

CPCA certification as opposed to USDE recognized accreditation makes it possible for Master's to offer a high quality learning experience at a significantly lower tuition rate.  Because CPCA certification is not concerned with Title IV Funding, the cost of compliance is eliminated from the tuition cost equation.  Students who desire an academically rigorous program, but have no need to attend an accredited institution, may profit most from earning their ministry degree from Master's.

Since our founding in 1999, we have pursued a policy of developing a Divinity School that operates in a manner consistent with Biblical guidelines, and have promoted and maintained appropriate academic and business standards.  Consequently, we have received a remarkable level of credibility among our ministry peers.  This affirmation of institutional integrity has attracted thousands of students from around the world.  Our alumni serve in practically every ministry calling within the denominational and independent structures of the church-at-large.  A careful examination of our Endorsements and Cooperatives bears witness to this fact.  Our goal is to remain faithful to our mission and purpose, to continue to promote appropriate academic standards, and to be vigilant in our pursuit of institutional development.

OK, but How Can I be Sure That Master’s International School of Divinity is Really Valid and of High Quality?
Check us out for yourself. DO NOT rely on published guide books, Internet message/degree discussion boards, blogs or chat rooms for accurate information (this holds true for any other school you may be considering). Such places as message/degree discussion boards and blogs are too often populated by one or more “self-proclaimed expert” who only rarely possess any actual first-hand knowledge about the schools they suppose themselves to be competent to rate (or rant against).  These individuals seem to crave whatever attention they may get from their pontifications.

In addition, the few books and online guides that profess to give “expert” guidance, are too often out-of-date or just plain wrong, simply because it is physically impossible for these individuals to actually visit the schools they profess to know about.  Consequently, information is notoriously inaccurate, out-of-date and suffers from the fact the few if any of the schools rated have received an actual on-site visit or even been afforded the benefit of submitting a formal validation document.  Information is usually gleaned from the internet, school catalogs as well as second and third-hand sources.  One serious indication of poor research is the use of unprofessional language and the strongly worded personal opinions of the author or compiler.  Therefore, caution should be exercised when accepting information as accurate.

Furthermore, be aware that some unscrupulous admissions recruiters often profess to have "inside knowledge" in order to berate competing schools as a way of convincing you to enroll at the school they represent.  The only sure way is to check it out for yourself.  In the case of Master's, read everything on our web site, call and speak with anyone or any organization named on the web site that is of interest to you. Request an academic evaluation for yourself, and ask every question that you think is important.  Don’t settle for anything less than a satisfactory answer. After that, you will be able to make an informed decision. 

FACTOID:  AVERAGE AMOUNT OF STUDENT LOAN DEBT IN THE U.S. PER PERSON FOR A FOUR-YEAR DEGREE  IS $24,000.  AVERAGE ANNUAL SENIOR PASTOR'S SALARY IN THE U.S. IS $42,000.

IMPORTANT:  Please visit us in person if that is possible.  These days, legitimate schools are trying very hard to present themselves as best they can by having a first-rate web site (such as Master's is trying to do).  However, easy degree mills and outright degree mills are also doing so.  That's why a visit can be worth a thousand pictures!  Of course, you may not be able to visit, but perhaps you have a friend or a colleague from your church or business contacts who may be able to come on your behalf, if so, we would be pleased to meet with them.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:  To learn why a ministry degree from a high quality unaccredited institution may be an academic and financial winner, click HERE.

Recommended Reading:  Wrong Ways for Clergy to Earn a Degree, A.K.A. The Degree Disease.
 

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