Frequently Asked Questions about Accreditation in Psychology

• What is accreditation?
• What is the purpose of accreditation?
• What kinds of programs are accredited?
• Why is accreditation important?
• What are the different statuses of accreditation and what do they mean?
• What is the difference between APA accreditation and institutional accreditation?

• How does a program become accredited?
• What happens when a program's accreditation is revoked?
• What happens when a decision has not been reached?
• How do I submit the self-study and other materials?
• Why is the accreditation process so confidential?

• What does it mean when a program is not accredited?
• What if I want to study psychology at the undergraduate or master’s level?
• Are programs outside the United States accredited?
• Will I have trouble getting a job or becoming licensed if I don't go to an accredited program?
• Which are the best psychology programs? How can I decide which psychology program to attend?
• How can I verify which programs are accredited?
• Are there any accredited psychology programs available through correspondence, Internet, television, or other non-traditional methods of instruction?
• When can I say I'm a graduate of an accredited program?

• What are the Implementing Regulations?
• What is the role of the APA Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation?
• Which groups recognized CoA's activities?
• What's new in accreditation?
• What is the complaint procedure? How can I provide third-party testimony?
• How can I contact the office?