CHEA Statement on Proposed Federal Changes to Accreditation

The proposed regulatory changes on accreditation reflects a serious effort by the U.S. Department of Education to strengthen accountability, improve student outcomes, and encourage innovation in higher education. We appreciate the Department opening this conversation and engaging stakeholders through the negotiated rulemaking process.

At the same time, several aspects of the proposal raise important questions that warrant careful consideration. Some provisions would expand expectations for accreditors into areas such as legal compliance, while placing new limits on their role in areas such as looking into institutional governance. Maintaining clear lines of responsibility across the higher education system is essential, so that accreditors remain focused on academic quality and peer review, rather than assuming functions more appropriately handled by state and federal authorities.

In addition, while student outcomes are essential, institutions serve different missions and student populations. A framework that relies too heavily on standardized outcomes risks overlooking those distinctions and the progress institutions make over time. Proposals to increase competition among accreditors may spur innovation, but they also raise concerns about consistency of standards and the potential fragmentation of accreditation, which could ultimately affect public trust.

Specifically, the proposal’s approach to transfer of credit, shifting toward an expectation of acceptance unless there is a clear academic reason not to, also introduces questions about institutional autonomy and academic judgment.

Accreditation is not simply a compliance exercise, but a peer-driven process that assures quality across a diverse higher education system. As this process moves forward, we hope for a balanced framework that strengthens quality and student success while preserving the core strengths of accreditation: peer review; respect for institutional mission; and a focus on continuous improvement.

While these are key areas, the proposed rules include a broader set of changes that may affect institutions and accreditors in different ways. Active engagement by institutional leaders and other stakeholders will be essential to ensure that any changes strengthen accountability while preserving the diversity, flexibility, and peer-driven nature of accreditation. Visit our negotiated rulemaking website for more information.