what does accredited phd mean

Accreditation

Accreditation is voluntary, meaning that programs choose whether and when to apply for it. 

First, a program submits a self-study, a document that includes training goals, objectives, and practices; student, faculty, and financial resources; program policies and procedures; competencies students are expected to obtain; and actual outcome data that demonstrate the achievement of these competencies.

APA reviews the self-study. If it is accepted, a team of professional colleagues will conduct an on-site review of the program. If it is denied, that means the self-study did not demonstrate sufficient consistency with the Guidelines and Principles for Accreditation of Programs in Professional Psychology (G&P) (PDF, 460KB).

After the site visit, the site visit team submits a report to the Commission on Accreditation (CoA), and the program has an opportunity to review and comment on that report. After this process is complete, the program is placed on the CoA’s next program review agenda. The CoA awards accreditation to those programs judged to be in accordance with the G&P. The CoA can also deny accreditation to applicant programs if the program does not meet the G&P.

The Accreditation Operating Procedures (PDF, 817KB) fully articulate the accreditation process.

Accreditation is both a status and a process. As a status, accreditation provides public notification that an institution or program meets standards of quality set forth by an accrediting agency. As a process, accreditation reflects the fact that in achieving recognition by the accrediting agency, the institution or program is committed to self-study and external review by one's peers in seeking not only to meet standards but to continuously seek ways in which to enhance the quality of education and training provided. Psychology's accrediting body, the Commission on Accreditation (CoA), publishes guidelines and procedures by which its accreditation process is carried out. It also publishes a list of accredited programs annually in the December edition of the American Psychologist .

Doctoral graduate programs in clinical, counseling, school psychology, other developed practice areas, and combinations of two or three of those areas. Predoctoral internships in the above areas may be accredited. Postdoctoral residencies in traditional (clinical, counseling, school) or specialty areas of professional psychology are also accredited.

The Commission on Accreditation does not accredit master’s level or undergraduate level programs in psychology.

Although graduating from an accredited program does not guarantee jobs or licensure for individuals, it may facilitate such achievement. It reflects the quality by which an educational institution or a program conducts its business. It speaks to a sense of public trust, as well as to professional quality.

As a student: Accreditation provides assurance that the program in which you are enrolled or are considering enrolling is engaged in continuous review and improvement of its quality, that it meets nationally endorsed standards in the profession, and that it is accountable for achieving what it sets out to do.

As a faculty member: Accreditation provides a formal process for ongoing evaluation and improvement of your program and faculty development outcomes, a process by which faculty, students and administration can work together in advancing the educational institution's mission.

As a psychologist: Accreditation provides a forum in which educators and practitioners of psychology can exchange ideas on future needs of the profession and ways in which to best address these needs in professional education and training.

As a member of the public: Accreditation ensures public accountability of a program or an institution -- that it has the means and demonstrates the outcomes for its educational process that are consistent with its goals and objectives.

The APA Commission on Accreditation is a specialized/professional accreditor. This means that APA accreditation only extends to specific doctoral graduate programs, predoctoral internships and postdoctoral residencies in professional psychology. The accredited status of one specific program does not extend to other programs in the same department or institution.

Regional accreditation covers entire institutions. There are six regional accrediting bodies in the United States, and each is authorized to accredit institutions in specific states, divided by geographic region. APA-accredited doctoral graduate programs must be housed in an institution that has regional accreditation. However, an institution may hold regional accreditation and not have any APA-accredited programs.

For more information on regional accrediting bodies, please visit their websites:

Middle States Commission on Higher Education New England Association of Schools and Colleges North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Western Association of Schools and Colleges

For further information about accreditation in general, please visit the Association of Specialized and Professional Accreditors .

National accreditation also covers entire institutions, and national accrediting agencies operate across the entire United States. Many of their accredited institutions are single-purpose (such as for education in technology) or faith-based.

An accredited program cannot have its accreditation revoked without first being placed on “accredited, on probation” status. Programs placed on “accredited, on probation” status will be reviewed in no fewer than one and no more than two years. This provides the public with notice that the program is not currently consistent with the Guidelines and Principles for Accreditation of Programs in Professional Psychology (G&P) (PDF, 460KB).

Revocation of accreditation occurs when the Commission on Accreditation (CoA), in its review of a program on “accredited, on probation” status, has evidence that the program continues to be inconsistent with the G&P.

The effective date of the revocation is the date of the CoA meeting in which the decision was made. If the program appeals the CoA's decision to revoke, and that decision is upheld, the revocation will take effect 30 days after the appeal hearing is held. Individuals completing the program after that date are not considered to have completed an accredited program.

Until 2015, the Commission on Accreditation (CoA) accredited programs in the United States, its territories, and Canada. However, following many years of discussion and consideration, the APA CoA no longer accredit programs in Canada as of Sept. 1, 2015 . In planning for this date, the APA and CPA approved and signed the First Street Accord in 2012 to establish mutual recognition of each agency's accreditation standards. 

The CoA does not evaluate foreign degrees. Please contact the appropriate state licensing body for more information on this issue.

The official listing of accredited professional psychology programs can be found in the December edition of the American Psychologist . A supplemental listing of accredited programs is periodically produced to update the most recent American Psychologist listing. Complete listings are available on request from the Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation .

Search Support Center

Search all Support Center

Contact Support

Top Questions

• How does the APA define "psychology"?
• What are the qualifications to become licensed as a psychologist in the U.S.?
• Can psychologists prescribe medications for their patients?
• How can I join APA?

How to Check if a Graduate Program is Accredited (and Why This Matters)

By Luisa Banchoff

Choosing which graduate programs to apply to can be a difficult and drawn-out process, with many competing factors to consider when drawing up a list. Whether you plan to study a master’s degree or Ph.D., in the U.S. or abroad, or at an academic or professional school, you’ll most likely be considering numerous criteria such as the location, timeframe, and cost of the program , as well as the educational quality of a given institution, which can be gauged by its academic ranking, faculty members and whether or not it has been accredited.

This last concept may be new to you, as it was to me when I was applying to graduate school. Understanding what accreditation means and why it is important can help refine your search for the right program and ease the overall application process.

What is accreditation and how does it work?

Accreditation is a form of quality assurance: in a landscape of thousands of graduate schools in the U.S. and abroad, not all offerings are at an equal standard. To make matters worse, educational fraud has become a serious problem, with so-called “ diploma mills ” issuing unaccredited – and often expensive –degrees that require little or no coursework. In light of these unfortunate developments, it is more important than ever to ensure that your graduate program meets the educational standards of its field.

In the U.S., regional and national organizations accredit undergraduate and graduate programs. The vast majority of graduate programs receive accreditation from a regional body, such as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. In contrast, some trade and vocational programs are accredited by national organizations focused on a particular field, such as the American Bar Association, the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.

While quality assurance in education is a standard feature of higher education worldwide, the process and language involved may be different outside the U.S. In the U.K., for example, the quality of post-secondary education is monitored by a single independent body, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, with similar institutions in Australia and New Zealand.

While these institutions do not use the term “accreditation” to describe their work, they are analogous to accrediting bodies in the U.S.

Why is accreditation important?

Accreditation is not only a crucial guarantee of the quality of the education you’ll receive in a particular program, but it also comes with numerous practical advantages in the short and long term. Even before you begin your studies, accreditation determines your ability to access government-issued financial aid in the U.S. Unaccredited programs are ineligible for federal financial aid, and state-based financial aid programs typically disqualify students studying at unaccredited institutions. Thus, if you are relying on government aid to finance your graduate education, you should ensure that your program is accredited.

Did you know that some universities offer fully funded graduate degrees? To learn more and discover programs in your discipline, read How to Fully Fund Your Master’s Degree and How to Fully Fund Your PhD .

Earning a degree from an accredited institution is also vital in helping you gain employment after graduation. It’s common knowledge that employers consider not only your academic performance but also the reputation of the schools you studied at, and accreditation is an important component of that reputation. Many employers will reject your application if your degree is not from an accredited institution (especially in highly regulated fields such as law, medicine, and engineering), while for others, such a degree will be a significant red flag. If you are considering studying at an unaccredited institution, you should do extensive research on what prospective employers will be looking for to ensure that your degree won’t be an impediment to your future success. It can be especially helpful to speak to alumni of the program in question and ask pointed questions about whether they encountered any obstacles in getting a job after graduation.

How do I find out if a graduate program is accredited?

Now that you know why accreditation matters, it’s time to determine whether the graduate programs you’re applying to are accredited. In most cases, you can find this information on a university’s website, but if you can’t find it, you should be able to request the information from the program administrator. If all else fails, you can find information on accreditation via the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs , which keeps a record of all accredited institutions across the country.

In the U.K., Australia, and New Zealand, this information can be found on the websites of these nations’ national assurance agencies.

In conclusion

If you’re having trouble finding proof of accreditation using these methods, it may be a sign that the program you are interested in is not accredited. In this case, you may want to consider pursuing other options, as there are likely accredited alternatives that are a better investment in your education and career.

Deciding to go to graduate school is a big step, whether you plan to study law or engineering, social science or medicine. You’ll not only want to find the degree program that checks off the most boxes on your list of criteria, but you’ll also want to feel self-assured in the quality of the education you’ll receive there.

Accreditation is a vote of confidence in deciding on a graduate program as well as an invaluable boost for your resume and job applications. So as you embark on the search for graduate programs, remember to take a few extra minutes to look into accreditation.

© 2023 ProFellow, LLC, all rights reserved

Related Posts:

• How to Narrow Down Your List of Graduate Schools as an International Student
• 9 Tips for Applying to Film School
• How to Choose the Right Graduate Program
• The Ultimate Guide to Winning a Rotary Global Grant Scholarship
• How to Successfully Balance Job Applications, Interviews, and Coursework

Graduate School , Graduate School Tips , Luisa Banchoff

How the AAAS Mass Media Fellowship Helped Dr. Vanessa Vieites Become a...

16 summer fellowships for law students, find and win paid, competitive fellowships.

Be alerted about new fellowship calls for applications, get insider application tips, and learn about fully funded PhD and graduate programs

Fellowship Resources

• Calls for Applications
• Upcoming Fellowship Deadlines
• Fellowships Database
• Interviews with Fellows
• International Fellows Network
• Graduate Funding Directory

Fellowship Tips

• What is a Fellowship?
• Fully Funded Course
• Graduate School Funding
• Fellowship Application Tips
• Fulbright Application Tips
• Fellowship Application Guide
• Our Mission, History & Values
• ProFellow Winner Testimonials
• Fully Funded Course Testimonials
• Fellowship Industry Report
• Advertise With Us
• Terms & Privacy

ProFellow is the go-to source for information on professional and academic fellowships, created by fellows for aspiring fellows.

©2011-2024 ProFellow, LLC. All rights reserved.

Graduate Journey Resource Center

Discover valuable resources to assist you in your program search and decision-making process.

What Does Accredited Mean and Why Should You Care?

According to The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), accreditation consists of “a collegial process of self-review and peer review for improvement of academic quality and public accountability of institutions and programs. This quality review process occurs on a period basis, usually every 3 to 10 years.” 1

Accreditation validates a school’s authenticity and legitimacy, holding it to a particular standard of quality in education. And it sets it apart from those institutions who are not offering those standards. Making sure a school and program you are interested in  is accredited isn’t that difficult. More importantly, however, it may save you time and money in the long run when certifying that your prospective institutions and programs are legitimately accredited and accepted by future employers and professional associations.

If you are searching for a graduate school, not only should it be an accredited one, but the graduate programs you are interested in will most likely require that your undergraduate degree was from an accredited school as well.

Who does the accrediting?

Educational institutions must undergo a process through valid accreditation sources, which are private organizations that review higher education institutions based on set standards of quality and competency. Legitimate accrediting organizations are overseen and monitored by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) and CHEA. Both the USDE and CHEA  maintain databases of accredited institutions and programs. These resources will help ensure that your program is considered legitimate and that you will receive an education that provides you with the professional skills you need to succeed.

It is important to beware of fraudulent organizations claiming to offer accreditation. The USDE and CHEA are the governing bodies to recognize other accrediting organizations, and provide a list of the approved accrediting organizations in the United States .

Why is accreditation important?

Accreditation represents credibility in the eyes of employers, state and federal government agencies in charge of providing funding eligibility to both students and programs, and many graduate programs require undergrad programs to be accredited as a condition of consideration.

Graduating from an accredited grad school program will not only be an advantage but is often a requirement when searching for jobs postgraduation. For example, most employers in the legal field will require law students to have graduated  from an ABA-accredited law school , and the accreditation status of your law school may affect whether you can take the BAR exam in your state.

If you are already in the workforce and your company offers a tuition reimbursement program, they may require the graduate school and program to be accredited to qualify for that reimbursement.

Types of accreditations

The most common forms of accreditation you need to worry about are regional and national, and it’s important to understand the differences.

Regional accreditation

This is the most common and accepted type of accreditation amongst institutions in the United States. There are six regional accrediting organizations recognized by the USDE and CHEA:

• Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA)
• New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
• North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

What makes regional accreditation so important is the transferability of credits between schools. You can transfer credits between regionally accredited schools as well as nationally accredited ones, but not vice versa. Credits from nationally accredited schools and programs are usually not transferable to a regionally accredited school.

National accreditation

Nationally accredited schools tend to be reserved for trade, vocational and career schools, as well as some nursing programs. The recognized accrediting agencies for national accreditation are:

• Distance Education and Training Council (DETC)
• Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS)
• Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)

Program accreditation

Most graduate disciplines, such as business ( ACBSP , AACSB , and others), law ( ABA ), and psychology ( NASP ), have their own accrediting bodies that you can research whether the program you are interested in is in fact recognized by a respected association.

As a graduate student, however, you will be more concerned about a program and institution being regionally accredited or accredited in the specialty you are interested in rather than nationally.

Finding the right grad school

There are many factors to consider when searching for and applying to grad schools. The application process alone is a time-consuming undertaking, so ensuring that the schools you are applying to meet the highest standards possible should be a top priority.

Having a uniform set of standards and expectations imposed upon schools not only gives you the confidence that you are receiving a good education, but any future employers the confidence that you’ve received an adequate education and training for your chosen profession.

1 About CHEA | Council for Higher Education Accreditation

• Contributors
• Advertising

Unaccredited vs Accredited: What You Need to Know Before Choosing Your Degree Program

Are you ready to take the leap and pursue your dream degree? With so many options available, it’s crucial to make an informed decision before committing to a program. This article dives deep into the world of unaccredited and accredited degree programs. 

So grab a cup of coffee and explore what sets these two paths apart, helping you choose the perfect educational journey for your future success.

Accreditation: What Does it Mean?

Accreditation is a vital aspect to consider when choosing a degree program. It’s a process where experts from outside the school check if it meets certain quality standards. These experts work for organizations approved by the US Department of Education.

Accreditation ensures that a college or university provides a good education. They look at the curriculum, the qualifications of the teachers, student services and how the school is run. Accredited schools promise to give students a high-quality education and follow ethical rules.

The Difference between Unaccredited and Accredited Degree Programs

Accredited degree programs are offered by institutions that have been evaluated and approved by a recognized accrediting body. These bodies, such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) or the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), ensure that the institution meets certain quality standards. This is evaluated in terms of curriculum, faculty qualifications, student services and more. This evaluation process is rigorous and ongoing to ensure that students receive a high-quality education.

On the other hand, unaccredited degree programs are offered by institutions that have not undergone this evaluation process or have failed to meet accreditation standards. This means that there is no external validation of the program’s quality or recognition from other educational institutions or employers. For example, if you take a look at  unaccredited vs ABA accreditation  ( American Bar Association), there’s a lot to think about.

One of the main advantages of attending an accredited degree program, such as one with ABA accreditation in the case of law schools, is that it assures employers and other institutions about the value of your education. Your degree will be recognized as legitimate and reputable, which can enhance your job opportunities and further educational pursuits.

On the other hand, if you’re considering a law school program that is unaccredited, it’s essential to be cautious. Unaccredited programs may not carry the same level of credibility or recognition. This potentially limits your job prospects and makes it more challenging to transfer credits to another institution or pursue post-graduate studies. Accredited degrees, like those with  ABA  accreditation in the legal field, are generally preferred for their established quality and recognition within the industry.

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Degree Program 

When choosing a degree program, three key factors to keep in mind are cost, time commitment and job opportunities.

• Cost: Consider the total expenses, including tuition, textbooks, accommodation and other costs. Compare pricing structures from different institutions, but be cautious about unaccredited programs that may seem cheaper initially but could cost you more in the long run.
• Time Commitment: Evaluate how much time you can realistically devote to your studies. Think about whether you’ll study part-time or full-time and factor in work and family responsibilities. Accredited programs often have set timelines, while unaccredited ones may offer more flexibility but may take longer to complete.
• Job Opportunities: Research the potential job opportunities associated with your chosen program. Accredited degrees generally offer better career prospects, while unaccredited ones may limit your options or require additional qualifications later.

Importance of Researching the Accreditation Status of Your Chosen Degree Program

One of the main reasons why researching accreditation status is crucial is because it guarantees that you are enrolling in a legitimate and recognized educational institution. Unfortunately, there are numerous diploma mills or unaccredited institutions that offer degrees without proper authorization or oversight. These degrees may not hold any value in the job market or for further education opportunities. By choosing an accredited program, you can be assured that employers and other educational institutions will recognize your degree. 

Moreover, accredited programs undergo rigorous evaluation processes to ensure they meet specific standards of education, faculty qualifications, resources and student support services. This means that attending an accredited program will provide you with a high-quality education and help develop the necessary skills for your future career. 

Choosing an unaccredited program also poses financial risks, as many federal aid such as grants and loans are only available for students enrolled in accredited programs. Additionally, some employers have policies against hiring individuals with degrees from non-accredited institutions due to concerns about their legitimacy.

Related Posts ▾

Tips for Last Minute Resume Building

Should You Study Abroad?

How to Choose Your College Major: A Complete Guide

To Rush or Not to Rush: Sorority 101

How to…Make the Most of Your Summer Job

Choosing the Right Job After College

Leave a comment.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CACREP Accreditation: Everything You Need To Know

Updated: Apr 17, 2024, 8:11am

Key Takeaways

• CACREP accreditation affirms that a counseling program meets high standards for curricular content, faculty credentials and professional preparation.
• Graduating from a CACREP-accredited program typically fulfills educational requirements for state licensure as a counselor.
• Some employers, particularly in the federal government, require candidates for counseling positions to hold CACREP-accredited degrees.

Accreditation is one of the most important assurances of a quality education. Programmatic accreditation assesses a degree program’s content and verifies that the program covers relevant skill and knowledge areas. Programmatic accreditation can affect whether a graduate qualifies for licensure or employment.

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) provides accreditation to graduate-level counseling programs that prepare learners to become licensed professional counselors in settings like schools, private practices, government, mental health organizations and human services.

In this article, we overview what CACREP accreditation is, how programs become accredited and why accreditation matters.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• Over 3,868 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

What Is CACREP Accreditation?

CACREP accreditation is both a process and a status a counseling program can hold. The accreditation process validates a counseling program’s commitment to educational excellence. CACREP accredits the following types of master’s and doctoral programs:

• Addiction counseling
• Career counseling
• Clinical mental health counseling
• Clinical rehabilitation counseling
• Marriage, couple and family counseling
• Rehabilitation counseling
• School counseling
• College counseling and student affairs
• Counselor education and supervision

The Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education recognize two types of higher education accreditation : institutional and programmatic. Unlike institutional accreditation, CACREP accreditation is degree-specific. Obtaining this accreditation demonstrates to the public that a program continually meets professional standards set by CACREP.

CACREP accreditation involves a comprehensive evaluation of a program. Meeting CACREP’s minimum standards for core content area offerings, minimum credit areas and practicum requirements does not guarantee accreditation.

Other aspects considered in the CACREP accreditation process include degree offerings, student access to counseling learning environments, faculty-to-student ratios, education level of faculty and staff, continual program self-evaluation and learning opportunities in specialty areas.

Why Is CACREP Accreditation Important?

CACREP accreditation signifies that faculty and administrators within a counseling program are committed to bettering their program’s educational effectiveness. The process also evaluates a program’s stability and professionalism. Lastly, CACREP accreditation affirms that a program offers high-quality content that prepares learners for licensure and success as counselors.

How Does a Program Earn CACREP Accreditation?

As stated earlier, earning CACREP accreditation is entirely voluntary. As both a process and a status, accreditation requires significant consideration and a commitment to excellence on the part of a program’s administration and faculty.

Initial Eligibility

First, a program considers whether or not they meet the initial eligibility requirements. CACREP only accredits master’s and doctoral programs that identify as counseling programs, are regionally accredited and meet the minimum credit hours set forth by the CACREP standards, among other requirements. Complete standards are laid out on CACREP’s policy page .

CACREP-eligible programs may engage in a thorough self-study against the CACREP policies and standards. For a program to become accredited, it must be able to illustrate how it meets CACREP’s expectations in a narrative report.

Once the application and self-study are approved, CACREP conducts a site visit. A site team validates the self-study document through observations; individual and group discussions with administration, faculty and staff; and interviews with alumni and current students.

Accreditation Decision

Based on the results, programs can receive a two-year, an eight-year or denial of accreditation. If accredited, a program must maintain its accreditation through interim and mid-cycle reports and vital statistics surveys.

Does it Matter if a Program Holds CACREP Accreditation?

Enrolling and graduating from a program that holds CACREP accreditation can make a difference in your counseling journey. After all, if you are committing time and money to a program, it’s important to choose one that will pay off after graduation.

Ultimately, each state has distinct licensure requirements for practice as a counselor, and aspiring counselors should be familiar with their state’s regulations. Graduating from a CACREP-accredited program does not guarantee licensure. However, CACREP standards often meet minimum educational and experiential requirements for state licensure.

That said, some federal government organizations require their counselors to hold degrees from CACREP-accredited programs. The U.S. Department of Defense and the Army require a CACREP-accredited degree for the TRICARE Certified Mental Health Counselor credential or for employment as a fully functioning practitioner with the Army Substance Abuse Program.

The Department of Veterans Affairs also employs licensed professional mental health specialists who graduated from CACREP-accredited programs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About CACREP Accreditation

Is cacrep accreditation important.

CACREP accreditation should be a top consideration when applying to a master’s or doctoral counseling program. CACREP accreditation validates the overall quality of a counseling program against a set of third-party standards and helps prepare students to work as professional counselors.

Is CACREP or APA accreditation better?

Accreditation by CACREP and the American Psychological Association (APA) cover different areas. CACREP focuses on counseling and does not accredit any psychology programs. The APA accredits psychology programs.

Which accreditation is best for counseling?

The APA recognizes three accreditation entities: CACREP, the APA and the Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE). Of the three, the best accreditation is the one that aligns with your career goals. CORE mainly offers accreditation for rehabilitation education, the APA administers accreditation for counseling psychology and CACREP provides accreditation for other counseling programs.

What does CACREP stand for?

CACREP stands for the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.

• Best Master’s In ABA Online Degrees
• Best Online Master’s In Counseling Psychology
• Master’s In Counseling
• Best Online Psychology Degrees
• Best Online Psychology Master’s Degrees
• Best Online Psy.D. Programs
• Best Online Counseling Degrees
• Best Master’s In Mental Health Counseling Online
• Best Online Counseling Degrees: Top Master’s Programs
• Best Online Master's In School Counseling
• Best Online Master’s In Organizational Psychology
• Best Online MFT Programs
• How To Become A Counseling Psychologist
• Careers In Psychology
• How To Become A Clinical Psychologist
• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
• How To Become A Mental Health Counselor
• How To Become A Therapist
• How To Become A Psychologist
• What Can You Do With An Associate Degree In Psychology?
• Earning An Online Bachelor's Degree In Counseling
• How Much Does A Psychologist Make?
• Online Mental Health Counseling Degrees
• What Is A Neuropsychologist?
• What Is Counseling Psychology?
• Psychology BA vs BS Degree
• Psychology Degrees, Specializations And Career Paths
• Psychotherapist Vs. Psychologist
• Psy.D. Vs. Ph.D.
• Sociology Vs. Psychology

Psychology Degree Guide: Courses, Careers And Online Options

Best Online Doctorates In Psychology Of 2024

Best Online Ph.D. In Organizational Psychology Programs Of 2024

Best Online Ph.D.s In Counseling Of 2024

How To Become A Psychiatrist: A Step-By-Step Guide

Best Online Associate Degrees In Psychology Of 2024

Brandon Galarita is a freelance writer and K-12 educator in Honolulu, Hawaii. He is passionate about technology in education, college and career readiness and school improvement through data-driven practices.

Cookies on CSWE Website

We use cookies to improve your experience on our Website. By using our Website you accept our use of cookies. To find out more, read our updated privacy policy and cookie policy . 

Not Registered Yet?

The site navigation utilizes arrow, enter, escape, and space bar key commands. Left and right arrows move across top level links and expand / close menus in sub levels. Up and Down arrows will open main level menus and toggle through sub tier links. Enter and space open menus and escape closes them as well. Tab will move on to the next part of the site rather than go through menu items.

• Accreditation Pilot
• Accreditation
• Standards, Policies, Processes
• Practice Doctorate Program Accreditation

Accreditation Pilot Update (January 2024):

Since the accreditation pilot launch in October 2021 the Board of Accreditation (BOA) and CSWE staff have worked to review each benchmark stage and continue to evaluate pilot findings. As part of this process, the BOA will revise the   Accreditation Standards for Professional Practice Doctoral Programs in Social Work , approved and adopted for pilot use in June 2020. Information about the standards revision process can be found here .  It is anticipated that additional practice doctorate programs will be able to seek accreditation in 2025, once the pilot concludes and post-pilot standards have been adopted by the BOA. Additional information regarding the process to apply for accreditation post-pilot can be expected in late 2024. The timeline is subject to change pending Council on Higher Education Accreditation ( CHEA ) review. We encourage all existing and developing practice doctorate programs to complete the Practice Doctorate Program Record Audit Form . This will allow CSWE to maintain accurate records to communicate important updates as the pilot concludes and full implementation begins.

Pilot Resources

• Accreditation Standards for Professional Practice Doctoral Programs in Social Work
• Professional Practice Doctoral Program Accreditation Pilot Handbook  
• Professional Practice Doctoral Program Accreditation Pilot Eligibility Standards
• Interpretation Guide for Professional Practice Doctoral Program Standards
• Professional Practice Doctoral Program Accreditation Pilot Required Forms

What does it mean to pilot the accreditation process?

In order for the BOA to request a change of scope to include practice doctorate program accreditation, a pilot review is required by CHEA . The requirement for the pilot review is to show that “the accrediting organization has the capacity and competence to carry out and sustain the requested change of scope.” Piloting is not only required by CHEA but is also best practice as it allows the BOA and CSWE staff to intentionally review each stage in the accreditation process and make adjustments, as needed. This is further aligned with CHEA’s requirement “for the accrediting organization to review its standards to determine whether these accommodate the change or expansion of scope and whether any needed standards revisions are necessary.”   Four programs were selected to participate in the pilot which launched in October 2021 and is scheduled to conclude in 2025. Programs were selected to emphasize diversity in the pilot. Pilot selection is NOT indicative of program quality or whether the program has adopted the Accreditation Standards for Professional Practice Doctoral Programs in Social Work .   CSWE and its BOA recognize the impact the pilot selection process may have on the programs not selected and therefore has asked that all practice doctorate programs not disclose their selection status to the public. The BOA, and CSWE staff, will also not be releasing the list of selected pilot programs nor candidacy decisions for the pilot programs to the public until the pilot is complete or an initial accreditation decision is made.  Once two practice doctorate programs are granted initial accreditation, the BOA may apply for an expansion of scope with CHEA. The BOA is committed to the accreditation of practice doctorate programs.

New! Information for existing practice doctorate programs

Programs interested in seeking accreditation post-pilot are encouraged to complete the Practice Doctorate Program Record Audit Form . This will allow CSWE to maintain accurate records to communicate important updates as the pilot concludes and full implementation begins. In addition, if the program has chosen to adopt and operate under the Accreditation Standards for Professional Practice Doctoral Programs in Social Work , the program may consider adding the following statement to their website:

CSWE’s Board of Accreditation (CSWE-BOA) is currently piloting the accreditation of practice doctorate programs. Although there are currently no CSWE-BOA accredited practice doctorate programs, in June 2020, CSWE-BOA approved and adopted the Accreditation Standards for Professional Practice Doctoral Programs in Social Work . [Insert Program Name] has adopted the Accreditation Standards for Professional Practice Doctoral Programs in Social Work and is prepared to undergo accreditation once it becomes available. For information about practice doctorate program accreditation and the current pilot, please visit the Council on Social Work Education website .

Information for prospective practice doctorate program students

The accreditation of practice doctorate programs is currently being piloted and it will be quite some time before accreditation of these programs is the norm. Piloting accreditation processes is standard practice among accreditors and is required by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. All stakeholders, including licensing boards, are aware of and understand that this is a standard and intentionally incremental process.   Whether a program is selected to participate in the pilot is NOT indicative of program quality or whether the program has adopted the Accreditation Standards for Professional Practice Doctoral Programs in Social Work .  In addition, CSWE staff will not be releasing the list of selected pilot programs nor candidacy decisions for the pilot programs and programs are also asked to not disclose their selection status to the public.   Students should be aware that, until accreditation of practice doctorate programs is fully implemented, and all existing practice doctorate programs have had a chance to seek accreditation, a practice doctorate program’s CSWE-accredited status should not be a determining factor in selecting which professional practice doctorate program to apply to. Prospective students should select a program that matches their professional and personal goals. Please review the CSWE/GADE Report on the Current Landscape of Doctoral Education in Social Work for examples of employment opportunities obtained by recent practice doctorate program graduates. Prospective programs may be able to provide more detailed information on the specific types of employment opportunities obtained by their graduates. It may also be helpful to inquire with prospective programs regarding the institution’s regional accreditation and whether the program has adopted the Accreditation Standards for Professional Practice Doctoral Programs in Social Work . Admissions criteria are determined by each individual program. If the program has adopted the  Accreditation Standards for Professional Practice Doctoral Programs in Social Work , at a minimum, they require that applicants:

have earned a master’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program*; and

have a minimum of 3 years of practice experience beyond the master’s degree in social work.

This includes individuals whose degree was recognized as equivalent through CSWE’s International Social Work Degree Recognition and Evaluation Service (ISWDRES) and graduates from Canadian social work programs accredited by CASWE covered by the memorandum of understanding between CSWE and CASWE .

Information for current or former practice doctorate program students

Piloting accreditation processes is standard practice among accreditors and is required by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Stakeholders, including licensing boards, are aware of, and understand, that this is a standard and intentionally incremental process.   Only degrees earned after accreditation of practice doctorate programs is fully implemented and all existing practice doctorate programs have had a chance to seek accreditation, can a non-accredited status carry any significance. Any potential barriers to practice due to doctorate program accreditation status are not anticipated until well into the future.   Once practice doctorate programs receive initial accreditation, their accreditation status cannot retroactively cover or grandfather previous students. The accreditation status obtained at initial accreditation covers the components that were reviewed during the accreditation review process. Therefore, the accredited status applies to those students who started the program in the academic year during which candidacy is granted and beyond. For example, if a program is granted candidacy in Spring 2023, students who started the program in Fall 2022 or later will have graduated from an accredited program, if/when the program receives initial accreditation. See policy 1.6 in the Accreditation Policy Handbook  for more details. Accreditation status will not be retroactively effective to previous students and curricula. 

Information for the public regarding the pilot

Beginning Fall 2021, the BOA began piloting the accreditation process for practice doctorate programs in social work. Individual programs determine their own degree designation but most of these programs designate “DSW” as the degree awarded. Piloting is an intentionally incremental process. Only once accreditation of practice doctorate programs is fully implemented, and all existing practice doctorate programs have had a chance to seek accreditation, should a practice doctorate program’s CSWE- accredited status be considered when evaluating the qualifications of future practice doctorate program graduates. The CSWE-accredited status of practice doctorate programs for graduates that complete these programs before accreditation is readily available to programs should not be considered.   Additionally, once practice doctorate programs receive initial accreditation, a program’s accreditation status cannot retroactively cover or grandfather previous students. The accreditation status obtained at initial accreditation covers the components that were reviewed during the accreditation review process. See policy 1.6 in the Accreditation Policy Handbook for more details. Accreditation status will not be retroactively effective to previous students and curricula. 

What does practice doctorate program accreditation mean for practice?

The number of practice doctorate programs has grown in recent years. In response to questions in the field about how practice doctorate program graduates fit within the education continuum, BOA partnered with programs, social work educators and leaders, doctorate students, and other constituents to conduct an environmental scan, gather data and feedback, and create accreditation standards. These standards set a minimum threshold for recognizing practice doctorate programs as having a level of performance, integrity, and quality expected by the educational community and the constituents the programs serve.   Baccalaureate social work programs (accredited by CSWE’s BOA since 1974) and master’s social work programs (accredited by CSWE’s BOA since 1952, and its predecessor since 1919) maintain their significant and vital place in the continuum of social work education in preparing students for competent social work practice across all system levels (micro, mezzo, and macro) and with diverse clients and constituencies. Bachelor’s programs prepare students for generalist practice while master’s programs prepare students for generalist and specialized practice. Practice doctorate programs prepare graduates to advance practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels as well as in higher education and/or professional leadership. You can learn more about the landscape of doctorate education in social work here .    Neither CSWE, nor its Board of Accreditation (BOA), address / designate a terminal degree for social work education or practice.  For information regarding faculty preparation or regional accreditation requirements for faculty qualifications / credentials, please contact the program’s accreditation specialist for your currently accredited baccalaureate and master’s social work program. The BOA and EPAS  clearly continue to emphasize the value of master’s level social work preparation for faculty in accredited social work programs as well as for post-degree social work practice.   Professional social work licensure post-degree is under the authority of a designated board within each individual state government. Your state government is responsible for regulating licensure and setting criteria required to become a licensed professional social worker. Requirements may differ by state. Contact information for individual state licensing boards can be found on the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) website or through an internet search for a licensing board for a particular state. Questions regarding licensure and professional practice should be directed to the board in your state. Questions regarding the national social work licensing exams should be directed to the ASWB, the body that publishes and administers the exams.

Other Accreditation Statuses

Defining intent to apply, accredited on contingency, and full accreditation, differences between accreditation statuses, intent to apply, accredited, on contingency, full accreditation, is my program accredited, doctoral programs, doctoral internships, and postdoctoral residencies, “intent to apply” declaration, “accredited, on contingency”, “full accreditation”, search for accredited programs, related pages.

Applying for Accreditation and Intent to Apply Status

Get Accredited

Find APA-Accredited Programs

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation

750 first st, ne  washington, dc 20002-4242 [email protected], telephone: (202) 336-5979  tdd/tty: (202) 336-6123  fax: (202) 336-5978 .