University Accreditation

All Great Plains IDEA member universities are accredited by regional agencies, aligning with requirements set by the U.S. Department of Education. This ensures that students pursuing their degrees through Great Plains IDEA are met with a high standard of academic excellence, which is essential in sitting for certification exams and pursuing future employment.

This interactive map shows where our member universities are located.

  • List of member universities and their accrediting agency
    University Accrediting Agency
    University of Arkansas Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
    Auburn University Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
    California State University, Chico Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
    Central Washington University Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
    Clemson University Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
    Colorado State University Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
    University of Georgia Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
    Iowa State University Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
    University of Kansas Medical Center Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
    Kansas State University Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
    Michigan State University Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
    University of Mississippi Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
    University of Missouri Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
    Montana State University Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
    University of Nebraska-Lincoln Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
    North Carolina State University Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
    North Dakota State University Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
    Oklahoma State University Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
    South Dakota State University Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
    Texas Tech University Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

     

  • What is accreditation?

    Accreditation is voluntary quality assurance.  Regional accreditation is the prime evaluation sought by degree-oriented, nonprofit, or state-owned institutions. National accreditation tends to be for institutions for profit or those with a religious or technical focus.

  • What do accreditors review?

    Regional accreditors review the university using standards of excellence for courses, faculty credentials, services, and value.

  • How often does accreditation happen?

    To continue accreditation, an institution is reassessed every few years.

  • Why does accreditation matter to me?
    • Your courses will be from quality universities and your degree will be granted by one of those universities.
    • Employers know you have a valid degree as you seek a job.
    • Employers know their money is well spent if they assist you with tuition to earn your degree.
    • Federal grants and loans are awarded to learners attending accredited institutions.
    • Credentials from accredited institutions are often required in order for learners to sit for state licensure exams in professional fields.