Program Accreditation
Purpose
Program accreditation focuses on individual academic programs such as online bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees.
Requirements
The program must already operate under a legally authorized institution.
It must have a defined curriculum map, credit structure, and measurable outcomes.
Faculty must hold qualifications appropriate to the program level.
Evaluation Criteria
Curriculum Design: Relevance, rigor, alignment with global education frameworks.
Assessment Strategy: Transparency, consistency, and feedback mechanisms.
Faculty & Mentorship: Credentials, workload balance, and student engagement.
Technological Delivery: Reliability, accessibility, and user-centered design.
Student Outcomes: Completion rates, satisfaction, and career impact.
FAQ
What is GACOL accreditation?
GACOL accreditation is a formal recognition that an online university meets defined global quality standards in governance, curriculum, technology, and student experience.
Can any university apply?
Yes. Any legally registered institution offering online or hybrid higher-education programs can apply for accreditation.
How long does accreditation last?
Full accreditation is valid for five (5) years, with annual quality reviews and renewal options.
Each accredited institution and program is published in GACOL’s Accredited Institutions Directory and can be verified through a unique Certificate ID and QR code.
How can the public verify a certificate?
How to verify accreditation?
Use our online verification tool for confirmation.
GACOL stands for a future where education quality is not determined by geography but by integrity and impact.
We believe online universities are the architects of the next generation of global learning — and our mission is to recognize their excellence.
© 2025 Global Accreditation Council for Online Learning (GACOL). All rights reserved.
