Accreditation

Accreditation Overview

Accreditation is a process of validation in which colleges, universities and other institutions of higher learning are evaluated. The standards for accreditation are set by a peer review board whose members include faculty from various accredited colleges and universities. The board aids in the evaluation of each potential new school accreditation or the renewals of previously accredited colleges/schools. Accreditation is a form of independent review designed to establish and maintain the uniform quality of educational programs and institutional effectiveness. It includes an important process of self-assessment that allows an institution to reflect on its programs, policies, and procedures as well as its strengths and weaknesses in accomplishing its educational mission.

Accreditation and Affiliations

Yakima Valley College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Accreditation of an institution of higher education by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities indicates that it meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of institutional quality evaluated through a peer review process. An accredited college or university is one which has available the necessary resources to achieve its stated purposes through appropriate educational programs, is substantially doing so, and gives reasonable evidence that it will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. Institutional integrity is also addressed through accreditation.

Accreditation by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities is not partial but applies to the institution as a whole. As such, it is not a guarantee of every course or program offered, or the competence of individual graduates. Rather, it provides reasonable assurance about the quality of opportunities available to students who attend the institution.

Inquiries regarding an institution’s accredited status by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities should be directed to administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact:
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
8060 165th Avenue N.E., Suite 100, Redmond, WA 98052
(425) 558‐4224 | www.nwccu.org

 

2019 Yakima Valley College Year Seven Self-Evaluation Report

 

 

Accredited Workforce Education Programs

Several Workforce Education programs have earned special accreditation or recognition in their field of specialty as well. Additional information on this accreditation or recognition may be found in the following links.

Yakima Valley College is also affiliated with the American Association of Community Colleges.