Vocational schools should be accredited, just as any other educational institution should be. Many skills taught by vocational schools require graduates to be licensed; accordingly, a requirement of many tests is graduation from an accredited institution. Accreditation ensures that skills are being learned from a reliable source; that the education is sound and of good quality. Additionally, employers often will not consider graduates from unaccredited institutions for employment.
One of the largest bodies for vocational school accreditation is the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCSCT). Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE), the ACCSCT serves to promote better opportunities for students through establishing and maintaining standards which help to train and develop the workforce.
Regional accreditors for vocational schools in the U.S. include:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
- Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges
- Middle State Association of Colleges and Schools
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Some organizations associated with vocational school accreditation are listed below:
- Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS)
- Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
- Career College Association (CCA)
- Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET)
- International Vocational Education and Training Association
Professions related to vocational school education may be of interest. Please visit our partner sites found at AllSchools.com for a comprehensive list of various disciplines.
