What is accreditation?
Accreditation is a distinction granted to an institution that meets the criteria of educational quality by a given accrediting agency. The purposes of accreditation include the ability to:
- Assess and enhance the educational quality of an institution.
- Assure consistency in institutional operations.
- Promote institutional improvement.
- Provide for public accountability.
Why is accreditation important to you?
Accreditation assures prospective and current students that the institution:
- Is recognized as a qualified institution of higher learning with approved programs of study that meet recognized academic standards.
- Employs a professional staff.
- Has sufficient and adequate facilities and equipment.
- Is a stable and permanent fixture in the community.
Colleges voluntarily undergo periodic accrediting evaluations by teams of qualified examiners which include subject experts and specialists in the field of education and administration.
Who is WATC accredited by?
WATC has been accredited by the Council on Occupational Education since 2000. In 2003 WATC began pursuing accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association (HLC-NCA), as required by the Kansas Board of Regents. The college has been recommended by an HLC-NCA team of peer reviewers for initial accreditation with the commission and will receive official notice by early November, 2008.
For additional accreditation information contact Shirley Antes, Vice President, External Affairs, at santes@watc.edu, 316.677.9559.
View more specific information about each accrediting agency:
