Before enrolling in any educational program, take a few minutes to examine your school/program of choice. You should have a good sense about whether the school/program is the right one for you once you have answered the following questions.
- What are the educational requirements of the faculty? Who is teaching the course? Are you comfortable with his/her qualifications?
- What degrees are offered? Make sure your school is offering the degree of your choice.
- How long will it take to complete the degree? Do you have credits from other colleges that may transfer?
- What is the curriculum like? Are the classes hands-on, online or reading based?
- What if you need help? Are you able to contact your professor or a support center if need be?
- How much is tuition? Are books included? Are there additional “technology” or “lab” fees? Is there a registration fee? See information regarding T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Nevada for more information on scholarship opportunities in Nevada.
- And most importantly, is the school accredited? If so, by whom? Make sure the school is accredited by a legitimate accrediting body, keeping in mind that The Nevada Registry only accepts college/university classes and/or degrees from post-secondary schools that are regionally accredited (exceptions made on a case-by-case basis).
The criteria for acceptance is twofold:
- The college/university must be accredited.
To determine whether a college/university is accredited, search the U.S. Department of Education Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs found at: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. The accrediting agency must be recognized. - Schools must be accredited by one of the regional accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education listed below:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education
- North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission