Accreditation Frequently Asked Questions

<!DOCTYPE html> <html lang="en" dir="ltr" prefix="og: https://ogp.me/ns#"> <head> <meta charset="utf-8" /> <meta name="description" content="Office for Accreditation: Frequently Asked Questions" /> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.ala.org/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/faq" /> <meta property="og:title" content="Accreditation Frequently Asked Questions" /> <meta property="og:description" content="Accreditation Glossary Presentation on accreditation [PP]" /> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary" /> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Accreditation Frequently Asked Questions" /> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Accreditation Glossary Presentation on accreditation [PP]" /> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://www.ala.org/themes/custom/ala/ala-seo.png" /> <meta name="Generator" content="Drupal 10 (https://www.drupal.org)" /> <meta name="MobileOptimized" content="width" /> <meta name="HandheldFriendly" content="true" /> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0" /> <script type="application/ld+json">{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "Organization", "@id": "https://www.ala.org/", "name": "American Library Association", "url": "https://www.ala.org/", "description": "Awards, publishing, and conferences: ALA membership advocates to ensure access to information for all", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "representativeOfPage": "True", "url": "https://www.ala.org//themes/custom/ala/logo.svg" } } ] }</script> <link rel="icon" href="/themes/custom/ala/favicon.ico" type="image/png" /> <link rel="alternate" hreflang="en" href="https://www.ala.org/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/faq" /> <script>window.a2a_config=window.a2a_config||{};a2a_config.callbacks=[];a2a_config.overlays=[];a2a_config.templates={};</script> <title>Accreditation Frequently Asked Questions | ALA</title> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/sites/default/files/css/css_M2SDF6tzohf8_lyU2TZ-UOKHYFCXQMkDqu_dwglGLFQ.css?delta=0&language=en&theme=ala&include=eJxdilEOgyAQBS9E4EjNQ7Zos7BkF5La0xutxsS_eTMPKXVBXQNO8G-V2p2t1qmECCMHxmuHxypkhkzmJlEKVbSAl99xCJklgv8l6Whgjw--rkGRFW22S9_Gj9pG5MVmShst2zok" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/sites/default/files/css/css_30QFas6vwT8zlMAV0-MdlNkMuY1lhLjbBdVC20VtMQI.css?delta=1&language=en&theme=ala&include=eJxdilEOgyAQBS9E4EjNQ7Zos7BkF5La0xutxsS_eTMPKXVBXQNO8G-V2p2t1qmECCMHxmuHxypkhkzmJlEKVbSAl99xCJklgv8l6Whgjw--rkGRFW22S9_Gj9pG5MVmShst2zok" /> <script type="application/json" data-drupal-selector="drupal-settings-json">{"path":{"baseUrl":"\/","pathPrefix":"","currentPath":"node\/16545","currentPathIsAdmin":false,"isFront":false,"currentLanguage":"en"},"pluralDelimiter":"\u0003","suppressDeprecationErrors":true,"gtm":{"tagId":null,"settings":{"data_layer":"dataLayer","include_classes":false,"allowlist_classes":"","blocklist_classes":"","include_environment":false,"environment_id":"","environment_token":""},"tagIds":["GTM-PGK7ZWT"]},"gtag":{"tagId":"","consentMode":false,"otherIds":[],"events":[],"additionalConfigInfo":[]},"ajaxPageState":{"libraries":"eJxdjkEOwyAMBD9E4UnRUlyHyGCEQWr6-jZRpai9jHbmtEhpKOoe8B3-0bUOB0GAtFzpttlpLBohx1wijMKBywqZgcncXTuFqr1A8oscq7LQMsCBP_h3jw3P31hcQwd3tNVC6rNB_FX8rG1GybZScrbboHI-eQPO9EyL","theme":"ala","theme_token":null},"ajaxTrustedUrl":[],"multiselect":{"widths":250},"user":{"uid":0,"permissionsHash":"6d055e77f2dba947d248c3184bd403b313cb55c0ca910e8dcf2da6287a80491f"}}</script> <script src="/sites/default/files/js/js_brDYGC18jfIS_M-kT0GkAKK2YWsmP9Y2zMl3pzBJNIk.js?scope=header&delta=0&language=en&theme=ala&include=eJxdx0EKgDAMBMAP1eZJstJ2scREbA76e0G86G0GpYTDLsGL3A63SFAI1RfoQ-i-Wp36SHSn1jlAYWzfgv9ndJw3gngl7g"></script> <script src="/modules/contrib/google_tag/js/gtm.js?sromhv"></script> <script src="/modules/contrib/google_tag/js/gtag.js?sromhv"></script> <script src="/sites/default/files/js/js_lX-26s7SpaNKJG0aykBFwXMv3bDrRozCtxNfmBB60Iw.js?scope=header&delta=3&language=en&theme=ala&include=eJxdx0EKgDAMBMAP1eZJstJ2scREbA76e0G86G0GpYTDLsGL3A63SFAI1RfoQ-i-Wp36SHSn1jlAYWzfgv9ndJw3gngl7g"></script> <link rel="preconnect" href="https://fonts.googleapis.com" crossorigin> <link rel="preconnect" href="https://fonts.gstatic.com" crossorigin> <link rel="preload" href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Bitter:ital,wght@0,400;0,500;0,600;0,700;1,400;1,500;1,600;1,700&display=swap" as="style" crossorigin> <link rel="stylesheet" href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Bitter:ital,wght@0,400;0,500;0,600;0,700;1,400;1,500;1,600;1,700&display=swap" crossorigin> <link rel="preconnect" href="https://use.typekit.net" crossorigin> <link rel="preconnect" href="https://p.typekit.net" crossorigin /> <link rel="preload" href="https://use.typekit.net/hww8zbp.css" as="style" crossorigin> <link rel="stylesheet" href="https://use.typekit.net/hww8zbp.css" crossorigin> </head> <body class="path-node page-node-type-flex-page"> <a href="#main-content" class="visually-hidden focusable skip-link"> Skip to main content </a> <noscript><iframe src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/ns.html?id=GTM-PGK7ZWT" height="0" width="0" style="display:none;visibility:hidden"></iframe></noscript> <div class="dialog-off-canvas-main-canvas" data-off-canvas-main-canvas> <div class="layout-container"> <header role="banner" class="w-full border-b z-20 relative" x-data="{ open: false }"> <div class="hidden xl:block menu--utility_desktop"> <div class="region region-utility-menu"> <nav id="block-utility" class="block block-menu navigation menu--utility static xl:relative sidebar-menu" aria-labelledby="block-utility-menu" role="navigation"> <h2 class="visually-hidden" id="block-utility-menu" class="hidden">Utility</h2> <div :class="{ 'block': open, 'hidden xl:block': !open }" class="utility-nav w-full mx-auto bg-mainBlueColor"> <div class="utility-nav-list-wrapper flex items-center justify-end z-10"> <ul x-data="{ clicked: false }" class="w-full xl:w-auto list-reset flex menu--utility items-center flex-col xl:flex-row static p-7 xl:p-0"> <li class="w-full xl:w-auto"> <ul class="grid grid-cols-2 gap-4 xl:flex m-0 menu--utility__inner mb-6 xl:mb-0"> <li class="inline-block p-0" data-title=About-ALA> <a href="/aboutala" class="about text-white relative xl:pl-4 xl:pr-4 py-2 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" title="About ALA" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/43">About ALA</a> </li> <li class="inline-block p-0" data-title=ALA-Connect> <a href="https://connect.ala.org/home" class="connect text-white relative xl:pl-4 xl:pr-4 py-2 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" title="ALA Connect">ALA Connect</a> </li> <li class="inline-block p-0" data-title=ALA-Websites> <a href="/aboutala/sitesdirectory" class="website text-white relative xl:pl-4 xl:pr-4 py-2 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" title="ALA Websites" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/59883">ALA Websites</a> </li> <li class="inline-block p-0" data-title=Job-Board> <a href="https://joblist.ala.org/" class="job text-white relative xl:pl-4 xl:pr-4 py-2 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" target="_blank" title="Job Board">Job Board</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li @click="clicked = !clicked" :class="{ 'active': clicked }" class="xl:inline-flex xl:justify-center xl:items-center transition-all duration-300 parent-level dropdown w-full xl:w-auto xl:border-b-0 last3" data-title=Join--Renew> <a href="https://my.ala.org/store/dues.aspx" class="join text-white pl-7 xl:pl-4 relative xl:pr-4 py-4 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" target="_blank" title="Join | Renew">Join | Renew</a> </li> <li @click="clicked = !clicked" :class="{ 'active': clicked }" class="xl:inline-flex xl:justify-center xl:items-center transition-all duration-300 parent-level dropdown w-full xl:w-auto xl:border-b-0 last3" data-title=Donate> <a href="/donate" class="donate text-white pl-7 xl:pl-4 relative xl:pr-4 py-4 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" target="_blank" title="Donate">Donate</a> </li> <li @click="clicked = !clicked" :class="{ 'active': clicked }" class="xl:inline-flex xl:justify-center xl:items-center transition-all duration-300 parent-level dropdown w-full xl:w-auto xl:border-b-0 last3" data-title=Login> <a href="/saml_login?destination=/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/faq" class="text-white pl-7 xl:pl-4 relative xl:pr-4 py-4 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" title="Login">Login</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </nav> </div> </div> <div class="flex min-h-[86px] xl:gap-4 w-full xl:container items-start xl:items-center justify-between py-5 xl:px-0 relative flex-col xl:flex-row"> <div class="region region-header"> <div id="block-sitebranding" class="block block-system block-system-branding-block relative z-10"> <a href="/" rel="home" class="inline-block pl-5 xl:pl-0" aria-label="ALA logo"> <img class="max-w-[180px] md:max-w-[220px]" src="https://www.ala.org/themes/custom/ala/logo.svg" alt="ALA site logo"> </a> </div> </div> <div class="hamburger-menu w-full xl:w-auto" x-data="{ open: false }"> <div x-data="{ searchOpen: false }" class="xl:hidden absolute search-btn__mobile top-[33px]" :class="{ '': !open, '': open }"> <button aria-label="search" @click="searchOpen = !searchOpen, open = false" :class="{ 'block': !searchOpen, 'hidden': searchOpen }"> <svg role="group" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <path d="M19 19L14.7501 14.7425M17.1053 9.05263C17.1053 11.1883 16.2569 13.2365 14.7467 14.7467C13.2365 16.2569 11.1883 17.1053 9.05263 17.1053C6.91694 17.1053 4.86872 16.2569 3.35856 14.7467C1.8484 13.2365 1 11.1883 1 9.05263C1 6.91694 1.8484 4.86872 3.35856 3.35856C4.86872 1.8484 6.91694 1 9.05263 1C11.1883 1 13.2365 1.8484 14.7467 3.35856C16.2569 4.86872 17.1053 6.91694 17.1053 9.05263V9.05263Z" stroke="#15347E" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" class="search-icon-svg" /> </svg> </button> <button aria-label="close" @click="searchOpen = !searchOpen, open = false" :class="{ 'block': searchOpen, 'hidden': !searchOpen }"> <svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <g transform="matrix(1, 0, 0, 1, -11.855980873107912, -12.26480770111084)"> <rect class="search-close-icon" id="Rectangle 42" width="22.7224" height="2.3305" transform="matrix(0.707096 -0.707118 0.707096 0.707118 13.0762 29.21)" fill="#15347E"/> <rect class="search-close-icon" id="Rectangle 47" width="22.7224" height="2.3305" transform="matrix(0.707096 0.707118 -0.707096 0.707118 14.4395 13.1426)" fill="#15347E"/> </g> </svg> </button> <div class="search-input-field__wrapper absolute w-[414px] right-0" x-transition @click.away="searchOpen = false" x-cloak :class="{ 'block': searchOpen, 'hidden': !searchOpen }"> <form action="/search/site" method="get" accept-charset="UTF-8" class="flex absolute right-[-4rem] pt-2 xs:right-0"> <button aria-label="search" class="seach-icon flex justify-center items-center" type="submit"> <svg role="group" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <path d="M19 19L14.7501 14.7425M17.1053 9.05263C17.1053 11.1883 16.2569 13.2365 14.7467 14.7467C13.2365 16.2569 11.1883 17.1053 9.05263 17.1053C6.91694 17.1053 4.86872 16.2569 3.35856 14.7467C1.8484 13.2365 1 11.1883 1 9.05263C1 6.91694 1.8484 4.86872 3.35856 3.35856C4.86872 1.8484 6.91694 1 9.05263 1C11.1883 1 13.2365 1.8484 14.7467 3.35856C16.2569 4.86872 17.1053 6.91694 17.1053 9.05263V9.05263Z" stroke="#15347E" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" class="search-icon-svg" /> </svg> </button> <input x-show="searchOpen" type="search" id="edit-keys" name="keys" placeholder="Search here..." class="search-input-field w-[414px] h-12 pl-[62px] pr-2 py-3 bg-white rounded-md border-2 border-blue-900 justify-start items-center gap-2 inline-flex max-w-[94vw] md:max-w-auto" /> </form> </div> </div> <button @click="open = !open, searchOpen = false" class="h-5 w-10 focus:outline-none xl:hidden absolute right-7" :class="{ 'top-1/2 -translate-y-1/2': !open, 'top-33': open }" aria-label="Mobile Menu" :aria-expanded="open" aria-controls="block-ala-main-menu"><span class="sr-only">Menu</span> <span :class="{ 'max-w-7 transform rotate-45 translate-y-px top-0': open }" class="first w-10 h-1 bg-mainBlueColor left-0 absolute bottom-0 transition-all duration-200 ease-in-out origin-center"></span> <span :class="{ 'opacity-0': open, 'translate-y-0': !open }" class="second w-8 h-1 bg-mainBlueColor absolute top-1/2 right-0 transition-all duration-200 ease-in-out origin-center"></span> <span :class="{ 'max-w-7 transform -rotate-45 -translate-y-0.3': open }" class="w-10 h-1 bg-mainBlueColor absolute top-0 left-0 transition-all duration-200 ease-in-out origin-center"></span> </button>  <div x-cloak :class="{ 'hidden xl:block': !open }" class="transition-all duration-200 ease-in-out mt-8 xl:mt-0"> <div class="xl:w-auto xl:flex xl:items-center" :class="{ 'block': open, 'hidden xl:block': !open }"> <div class="xl:hidden menu--utility_mobile"> <nav id="block-utility-2" class="block block-menu navigation menu--utility static xl:relative sidebar-menu" aria-labelledby="block-utility-2-menu" role="navigation"> <h2 class="visually-hidden" id="block-utility-2-menu" class="hidden">Utility</h2> <div :class="{ 'block': open, 'hidden xl:block': !open }" class="utility-nav w-full mx-auto bg-mainBlueColor"> <div class="utility-nav-list-wrapper flex items-center justify-end z-10"> <ul x-data="{ clicked: false }" class="w-full xl:w-auto list-reset flex menu--utility items-center flex-col xl:flex-row static p-7 xl:p-0"> <li class="w-full xl:w-auto"> <ul class="grid grid-cols-2 gap-4 xl:flex m-0 menu--utility__inner mb-6 xl:mb-0"> <li class="inline-block p-0" data-title=About-ALA> <a href="/aboutala" class="about text-white relative xl:pl-4 xl:pr-4 py-2 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" title="About ALA" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/43">About ALA</a> </li> <li class="inline-block p-0" data-title=ALA-Connect> <a href="https://connect.ala.org/home" class="connect text-white relative xl:pl-4 xl:pr-4 py-2 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" title="ALA Connect">ALA Connect</a> </li> <li class="inline-block p-0" data-title=ALA-Websites> <a href="/aboutala/sitesdirectory" class="website text-white relative xl:pl-4 xl:pr-4 py-2 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" title="ALA Websites" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/59883">ALA Websites</a> </li> <li class="inline-block p-0" data-title=Job-Board> <a href="https://joblist.ala.org/" class="job text-white relative xl:pl-4 xl:pr-4 py-2 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" target="_blank" title="Job Board">Job Board</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li @click="clicked = !clicked" :class="{ 'active': clicked }" class="xl:inline-flex xl:justify-center xl:items-center transition-all duration-300 parent-level dropdown w-full xl:w-auto xl:border-b-0 last3" data-title=Join--Renew> <a href="https://my.ala.org/store/dues.aspx" class="join text-white pl-7 xl:pl-4 relative xl:pr-4 py-4 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" target="_blank" title="Join | Renew">Join | Renew</a> </li> <li @click="clicked = !clicked" :class="{ 'active': clicked }" class="xl:inline-flex xl:justify-center xl:items-center transition-all duration-300 parent-level dropdown w-full xl:w-auto xl:border-b-0 last3" data-title=Donate> <a href="/donate" class="donate text-white pl-7 xl:pl-4 relative xl:pr-4 py-4 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" target="_blank" title="Donate">Donate</a> </li> <li @click="clicked = !clicked" :class="{ 'active': clicked }" class="xl:inline-flex xl:justify-center xl:items-center transition-all duration-300 parent-level dropdown w-full xl:w-auto xl:border-b-0 last3" data-title=Login> <a href="/saml_login?destination=/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/faq" class="text-white pl-7 xl:pl-4 relative xl:pr-4 py-4 xl:py-2 inline-flex items-center font-bold" title="Login">Login</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </nav> </div> <div class="region region-primary-menu"> <nav id="block-ala-main-menu" class="block block-menu navigation menu--main static xl:relative sidebar-menu" aria-labelledby="block-ala-main-menu-menu" role="navigation"> <h2 class="visually-hidden" id="block-ala-main-menu-menu" class="hidden">Main navigation</h2> <div :class="{ 'block': open, 'hidden xl:block': !open }" class="main-menu-wrapper max-w-7xl mx-auto px-4 sm:px-6 xl:px-8 z-50"> <div class="flex items-center justify-between z-10"> <ul x-data="{ clicked: false }" class="main--menu list-reset flex gap-4 xl:min-h-[55px] flex-col xl:flex-row static bg-white pt-5 xl:pt-0 w-full menu-l-0 items-center"> <li @click="clicked = !clicked" :class="{ 'active': clicked }" class="xl:py-1 pr-4 relative transition-all duration-300 parent-level dropdown w-full xl:w-auto border-b xl:border-b-0 xl:flex xl:flex-col xl:justify-center" tabindex="0"> <a href="/membership" title="Membership" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/44">Membership</a> <div class="m-0 hidden z-10 xl:absolute dropdown-content main--menu_submenu"> <ul class="wrapper hidden bg-white xl:p-6 xl:py-4"> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/membership" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Membership" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/44">Membership Home</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/membership/new-member-center" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Membership" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/16868">Member Center</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/aboutala/donate" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Membership">Give to ALA</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/aboutala/getinvolved" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Membership" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15738">Get Involved with ALA</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/aboutala/committees" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Membership" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/16494">Committees</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/aboutala/divs" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Membership" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/59964">Divisions</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0 main--menu_submenu--final-item"> <a href="/aboutala/rts" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Membership" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/59965">Round Tables</a> </li> </ul> </div> <span class="caret"><svg role="group" width="10" height="7" viewBox="0 0 10 7" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" aria-hidden="true"> <path class="arrow-icon" d="M5.81907 6.62493C5.44804 7.12502 4.55223 7.12502 4.1812 6.62493L0.137632 1.17063C-0.244378 0.655459 0.214034 9.81579e-08 0.956565 1.63072e-07L9.0437 8.70072e-07C9.78576 9.34944e-07 10.2442 0.655459 9.86263 1.17063L5.81907 6.62493Z"/> </svg> </span> </li> <li @click="clicked = !clicked" :class="{ 'active': clicked }" class="xl:py-1 pr-4 relative transition-all duration-300 parent-level dropdown w-full xl:w-auto border-b xl:border-b-0 xl:flex xl:flex-col xl:justify-center" tabindex="0"> <a href="/advocacy" title="Advocacy & Issues" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/61209">Advocacy & Issues</a> <div class="m-0 hidden z-10 xl:absolute dropdown-content main--menu_submenu"> <ul class="wrapper hidden bg-white xl:p-6 xl:py-4"> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/advocacy" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Advocacy & Issues" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/61209">Advocacy & Issues Home</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/bbooks" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Advocacy & Issues" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/13731">Banned & Challenged Books</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/advocacy/intfreedom" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Advocacy & Issues" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12971">Intellectual Freedom</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/advocacy/advocacy-public-policy" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Advocacy & Issues" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17195">Public Policy</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/advocacy/diversity" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Advocacy & Issues" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15429">Equity, Diversity & Inclusion</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/advocacy/literacy" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Advocacy & Issues" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15265">Literacy</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0 main--menu_submenu--final-item"> <a href="/advocacy/privacy" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Advocacy & Issues" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15329">Privacy</a> </li> </ul> </div> <span class="caret"><svg role="group" width="10" height="7" viewBox="0 0 10 7" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" aria-hidden="true"> <path class="arrow-icon" d="M5.81907 6.62493C5.44804 7.12502 4.55223 7.12502 4.1812 6.62493L0.137632 1.17063C-0.244378 0.655459 0.214034 9.81579e-08 0.956565 1.63072e-07L9.0437 8.70072e-07C9.78576 9.34944e-07 10.2442 0.655459 9.86263 1.17063L5.81907 6.62493Z"/> </svg> </span> </li> <li @click="clicked = !clicked" :class="{ 'active': clicked }" class="xl:py-1 pr-4 relative transition-all duration-300 parent-level dropdown w-full xl:w-auto border-b xl:border-b-0 xl:flex xl:flex-col xl:justify-center" tabindex="0"> <a href="/conferencesevents" title="Conferences & Events" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/45">Conferences & Events</a> <div class="m-0 hidden z-10 xl:absolute dropdown-content main--menu_submenu"> <ul class="wrapper hidden bg-white xl:p-6 xl:py-4"> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/conferencesevents" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Conferences & Events" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/45">Conferences & Events Home</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/events" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Conferences & Events" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18">Events Calendar</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/conferencesevents/past" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Conferences & Events" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17491">Past & Future ALA Conferences</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/conferencesevents/ala-conference-site-selection" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Conferences & Events" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/60508">Criteria for Conference Site Selection</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0 main--menu_submenu--final-item"> <a href="/conferencesevents/celebrationdays" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Conferences & Events" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17432">Library Celebration Days</a> </li> </ul> </div> <span class="caret"><svg role="group" width="10" height="7" viewBox="0 0 10 7" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" aria-hidden="true"> <path class="arrow-icon" d="M5.81907 6.62493C5.44804 7.12502 4.55223 7.12502 4.1812 6.62493L0.137632 1.17063C-0.244378 0.655459 0.214034 9.81579e-08 0.956565 1.63072e-07L9.0437 8.70072e-07C9.78576 9.34944e-07 10.2442 0.655459 9.86263 1.17063L5.81907 6.62493Z"/> </svg> </span> </li> <li @click="clicked = !clicked" :class="{ 'active': clicked }" class="xl:py-1 pr-4 relative transition-all duration-300 parent-level dropdown w-full xl:w-auto border-b xl:border-b-0 xl:flex xl:flex-col xl:justify-center" tabindex="0"> <a href="/awards" title="Awards & Grants" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/28">Awards & Grants</a> <div class="m-0 hidden z-10 xl:absolute dropdown-content main--menu_submenu"> <ul class="wrapper hidden bg-white xl:p-6 xl:py-4"> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/awards" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Awards & Grants" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/28">Awards & Grants Home</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/awards/books-media" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Awards & Grants" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/31">Book, Print & Media Awards</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/grants" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Awards & Grants" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/29">Grants</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/awards/professional-recognition" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Awards & Grants" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/32">Professional Recognition</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/awardsgrants/seals" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Awards & Grants" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17246">Purchase Awards Seals</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0 main--menu_submenu--final-item"> <a href="/awards/recommended-books-and-media" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Awards & Grants" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/14">Recommended Print & Media Lists</a> </li> </ul> </div> <span class="caret"><svg role="group" width="10" height="7" viewBox="0 0 10 7" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" aria-hidden="true"> <path class="arrow-icon" d="M5.81907 6.62493C5.44804 7.12502 4.55223 7.12502 4.1812 6.62493L0.137632 1.17063C-0.244378 0.655459 0.214034 9.81579e-08 0.956565 1.63072e-07L9.0437 8.70072e-07C9.78576 9.34944e-07 10.2442 0.655459 9.86263 1.17063L5.81907 6.62493Z"/> </svg> </span> </li> <li @click="clicked = !clicked" :class="{ 'active': clicked }" class="xl:py-1 pr-4 relative transition-all duration-300 parent-level dropdown w-full xl:w-auto border-b xl:border-b-0 xl:flex xl:flex-col xl:justify-center" tabindex="0"> <a href="/educationcareers" title="Education & Careers" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/46">Education & Careers</a> <div class="m-0 hidden z-10 xl:absolute dropdown-content main--menu_submenu"> <ul class="wrapper hidden bg-white xl:p-6 xl:py-4"> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/educationcareers" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Education & Careers" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/46">Education & Careers Home</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="https://elearning.ala.org/" target="_blank" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Education & Careers">ALA eLearning</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="https://joblist.ala.org/" target="_blank" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Education & Careers">JobList Career Center</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Education & Careers" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11824">Accredited Programs</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/educationcareers/scholarships" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Education & Careers" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17131">ALA Scholarships</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0 main--menu_submenu--final-item"> <a href="/educationcareers/libcareers/become" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Education & Careers" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/13326">Become a Librarian</a> </li> </ul> </div> <span class="caret"><svg role="group" width="10" height="7" viewBox="0 0 10 7" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" aria-hidden="true"> <path class="arrow-icon" d="M5.81907 6.62493C5.44804 7.12502 4.55223 7.12502 4.1812 6.62493L0.137632 1.17063C-0.244378 0.655459 0.214034 9.81579e-08 0.956565 1.63072e-07L9.0437 8.70072e-07C9.78576 9.34944e-07 10.2442 0.655459 9.86263 1.17063L5.81907 6.62493Z"/> </svg> </span> </li> <li @click="clicked = !clicked" :class="{ 'active': clicked }" class="xl:mr-5 relative pr-4 transition-all duration-300 parent-level parent-level-last dropdown w-full xl:w-auto border-b xl:border-b-0 xl:flex xl:flex-col xl:justify-center" tabindex="0"> <a href="/tools" title="Tools & Resources" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/60005">Tools & Resources</a> <div class="m-0 hidden z-10 xl:absolute dropdown-content main--menu_submenu"> <ul class="wrapper hidden bg-white xl:p-6 xl:py-4"> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/tools" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Tools & Resources" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/60005">Tools & Resources Home</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/tools/programming" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Tools & Resources" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11826">Programming & Exhibitions</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/future" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Tools & Resources" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/14109">Center for the Future of Libraries</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/tools/guidelines" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Tools & Resources" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/8324">ALA Standards & Guidelines</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/tools/publications" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Tools & Resources" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/13399">Products & Publications</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/tools/librariestransform/libraries-transforming-communities" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Tools & Resources" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/14981">Libraries Transforming Communities</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0"> <a href="/tools/topics" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Tools & Resources" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15294">Research & Library Topics</a> </li> <li class="pl-3 xl:pl-0 main--menu_submenu--final-item"> <a href="/news" class="block xl:whitespace-nowrap transition-all duration-300" title="Tools & Resources" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/59884">News & Press</a> </li> </ul> </div> <span class="caret"><svg role="group" width="10" height="7" viewBox="0 0 10 7" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" aria-hidden="true"> <path class="arrow-icon" d="M5.81907 6.62493C5.44804 7.12502 4.55223 7.12502 4.1812 6.62493L0.137632 1.17063C-0.244378 0.655459 0.214034 9.81579e-08 0.956565 1.63072e-07L9.0437 8.70072e-07C9.78576 9.34944e-07 10.2442 0.655459 9.86263 1.17063L5.81907 6.62493Z"/> </svg> </span> </li> <li x-data="{ searchOpen: false }" class="main--menu__search hidden xl:list-item relative ml-4"> <button aria-label="Search" @click="searchOpen = !searchOpen" :class="{ 'block': !searchOpen, 'hidden': searchOpen }"> <svg role="group" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <path d="M19 19L14.7501 14.7425M17.1053 9.05263C17.1053 11.1883 16.2569 13.2365 14.7467 14.7467C13.2365 16.2569 11.1883 17.1053 9.05263 17.1053C6.91694 17.1053 4.86872 16.2569 3.35856 14.7467C1.8484 13.2365 1 11.1883 1 9.05263C1 6.91694 1.8484 4.86872 3.35856 3.35856C4.86872 1.8484 6.91694 1 9.05263 1C11.1883 1 13.2365 1.8484 14.7467 3.35856C16.2569 4.86872 17.1053 6.91694 17.1053 9.05263V9.05263Z" stroke="#15347E" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" class="search-icon-svg" /> </svg> </button> <button aria-label="Search Close" @click="searchOpen = !searchOpen" :class="{ 'block': searchOpen, 'hidden': !searchOpen }"> <svg role="img" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <g transform="matrix(1, 0, 0, 1, -11.855980873107912, -12.26480770111084)"> <rect class="search-close-icon" id="Rectangle 42" width="22.7224" height="2.3305" transform="matrix(0.707096 -0.707118 0.707096 0.707118 13.0762 29.21)" fill="#15347E"/> <rect class="search-close-icon" id="Rectangle 47" width="22.7224" height="2.3305" transform="matrix(0.707096 0.707118 -0.707096 0.707118 14.4395 13.1426)" fill="#15347E"/> </g> </svg> </button> <div class="search-input-field__wrapper absolute w-[414px] right-0" x-transition @click.away="searchOpen = false" :class="{ 'block': searchOpen, 'hidden': !searchOpen }"> <form action="/search/site" method="get" accept-charset="UTF-8" class="flex absolute right-[-4rem] pt-2 xs:right-0"> <button aria-label="search" class="seach-icon flex justify-center items-center" type="submit"> <svg role="group" width="20" height="20" viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"> <path d="M19 19L14.7501 14.7425M17.1053 9.05263C17.1053 11.1883 16.2569 13.2365 14.7467 14.7467C13.2365 16.2569 11.1883 17.1053 9.05263 17.1053C6.91694 17.1053 4.86872 16.2569 3.35856 14.7467C1.8484 13.2365 1 11.1883 1 9.05263C1 6.91694 1.8484 4.86872 3.35856 3.35856C4.86872 1.8484 6.91694 1 9.05263 1C11.1883 1 13.2365 1.8484 14.7467 3.35856C16.2569 4.86872 17.1053 6.91694 17.1053 9.05263V9.05263Z" stroke="#15347E" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" class="search-icon-svg" /> </svg> </button> <input x-show="searchOpen" type="search" id="edit-keys" name="keys" placeholder="Search here..." class="search-input-field w-[414px] h-12 pl-[62px] pr-2 py-3 bg-white rounded-md border-2 border-blue-900 justify-start items-center gap-2 inline-flex max-w-[94vw] md:max-w-auto" /> </form> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </nav> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </header> <main role="main"> <a id="main-content" tabindex="-1"></a> <div class="px-5 lg:px-0 lg:container"> <div class="region region-highlighted"> <div data-drupal-messages-fallback class="hidden"></div> </div> <div class="region region-content-above"> </div> </div> <div class="content relative"> <div class="breadcrumb-wrapper w-full z-20"> <div class="lg:container mx-auto"> <div class="region region-breadcrumb"> <div id="block-ala-breadcrumbs" class="block block-system block-system-breadcrumb-block relative z-10"> <nav class="breadcrumb" role="navigation" aria-labelledby="system-breadcrumb"> <h2 id="system-breadcrumb" class="visually-hidden">Breadcrumb</h2> <ol class="flex items-center"> <li> <a href="/">ALA</a> </li> <li> <svg role="img" width="20" height="23" viewBox="0 0 20 23" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" aria-hidden="true"> <g opacity="0.4"> <path d="M12.8128 11.3244L7.81283 5.70654L6.91699 6.71307L11.042 11.3244L6.93783 15.9356L7.83366 16.9422L12.8128 11.3244Z" fill="#101828"/> </g> </svg> </li> <li> <a href="/educationcareers">Education & Careers</a> </li> <li> <svg role="img" width="20" height="23" viewBox="0 0 20 23" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" aria-hidden="true"> <g opacity="0.4"> <path d="M12.8128 11.3244L7.81283 5.70654L6.91699 6.71307L11.042 11.3244L6.93783 15.9356L7.83366 16.9422L12.8128 11.3244Z" fill="#101828"/> </g> </svg> </li> <li> <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms">Accredited Programs</a> </li> </ol> </nav> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="page-content-wrapper"> <div class="region region-content"> <div id="block-ala-content" class="block block-system block-system-main-block relative z-10 lg:z-10" data-filter-on-class="z-30" data-filter-off-class="z-10"> <article data-history-node-id="16545" data-has-sidebar="true" class="node node--type-flex-page node--view-mode-full node--show-sidebar"> <div class="bg-secondaryColor20"> <div class="lg:container lg:py-16 relative lg:items-center"> <div class="px-5 py-12 lg:pt-20 lg:pb-0 xl:mb-0 xl:pt-0 2xl:px-0 text-center"> <h1 class="mx-0 my-2">Accreditation Frequently Asked Questions</h1> </div> </div> </div> <div class="node__content px-5 xl:px-0"> <div class="layout xl:flex"> <div class="node__sidebar m-auto xl:mx-0 z-50 mt-4 lg:max-w-[338px] xl:max-w-[300px] xl:mt-12"> <nav id="block-educationandcareerssecondarynav" class="block block-menu navigation menu--education-careers-secondary-nav static xl:relative sidebar-menu" aria-labelledby="block-educationandcareerssecondarynav-menu" role="navigation"> <h2 class="visually-hidden" id="block-educationandcareerssecondarynav-menu" class="hidden">Education and Careers Secondary Nav</h2> <div class="max-w-7xl mx-auto px-4 sm:px-6 xl:pl-0 z-50 mb-14 sidebar-nav-parent"> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="https://elearning.ala.org/" title="Home page for all ALA eLearning opportunities" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block">ALA eLearning</a> </li> <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/employment" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15802">Employment</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/employment/career-resources" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/13975">Career Development Resources</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/mentoring-opportunities" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12260">Mentoring Opportunities</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/employment/specialtyareas" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/1394">Employment Resources by Specialty Area</a> </li> <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/employment/foreigncredentialing" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/1392">Foreign Credentials Evaluation Assistance</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/employment/foreigncredentialing/foremployers" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/16110">For Employers</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/employment/foreigncredentialing/forjobseekers" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/16111">For Job Seekers</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/employment/foreigncredentialing/worldlist" title="World List of schools and departments of information science, information management and related disciplines." class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15247">World List</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/employment/laborrelations" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/1393">Labor Relations Resources</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/employment/salaries" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15947">Salaries</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="https://recruiting.ultipro.com/AME1043ALA" title="" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block">Work at ALA</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/leadership/emergingleaders" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17149">Leadership Programs</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/leadership" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15019">ALA Leadership Institute</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/leadership/testimonials" title="What participants had to say" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/13446">Testimonials from Participants</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/leadership/emergingleaders" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17149">Emerging Leaders</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="has-child expanded active unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: true }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms" title="" class="active max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11824">ALA Accredited Programs</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/directory" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/16328">Accredited master's programs</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/directory/pdf" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12032">Directory of accredited programs (pdf)</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/directory/historicallist" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15904">Historical list of accredited programs, 1925 - present</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/guidelines-choosing-masters-program-library-and-information-studies" title="Guidelines for choosing an ALA-accredited MLIS program" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/14896">Guidelines for choosing an accredited program</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforerp" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17241">External review panelists</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforerp/analyze" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11917">Analyzing the Program Presentation</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforerp/erpreportexample" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/10178">External Review Panel Report on the Master of Library and Information Studies Program</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforerp/travel" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/10187">External Review Panel travel - frequently asked questions</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforerp/questionnaires" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/10185">Questionnaires for alumni and employers</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforerp/evidence" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/10179">Requesting evidence</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforerp/ERP_service_info" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17142">What’s involved in serving on an External Review Panel?</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforerp/becomereviewer/ERPform" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17141">Become a reviewer for LIS accreditation</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforerp/assignederps" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11918">Resources for assigned ERPs</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforerp/erpchairs" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/10181">Resources for ERP chairs</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="active unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/faq" class="active max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block is-active" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/16545" aria-current="page">Frequently asked questions</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/careers/corecomp/corecompspecial/knowledgecompetencies" title="" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15391">Knowledge and Competencies Statements</a> </li> <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/reportsandpublications/prismreports" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17163">Reports and publications</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="http://www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/accreditation/prp/prism/prism_current" title="" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block">Prism</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/oversightgroup" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/10184">Oversight group and meeting schedule</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="http://www.ala.org/aboutala/committees/ala/ala-coa" title="" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block">Committee on Accreditation</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/oversightgroup/coameetings/coaschedule" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17127">Committee on Accreditation Meeting Schedule</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforprogramadministrators" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15510">Resources for LIS program administrators</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforprogramadministrators/onlinepp" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15567">Sample Program Presentations</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforprogramadministrators/outcomesassessment" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/13031">Selected outcomes assessment resources</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforprogramadministrators/addressingstandards" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/10182">Addressing the Standards for Accreditation</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforprogramadministrators/compreviewresources" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15260">Comprehensive review process resources</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforprogramadministrators/pathtoinitialaccred" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12519">Path to initial accreditation</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforprogramadministrators/reqreporting" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17276">Required reporting for accreditation</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/resourcesforprogramadministrators/schedule" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/10227">Schedule of reviews</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/standards" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17213">Process, policies, and procedures (AP3)</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/standards/AP3" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15611">Accreditation Process, Policies, and Procedures (AP3)</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/standards/ap3/overview" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/14521">I. Overview of ALA accreditation</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/standards/ap3/selfstudy" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/13934">II. Guidelines for the Self-Study and Comprehensive Review</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/standards/ap3/erpguidelines" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11916">III. Guidelines for the External Review Panel</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/standards/ap3/appealprocess" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/13935">IV. Appeal process</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/scholarships" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17131">ALA Scholarships</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/scholarships/view-all-scholarships" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/9">All ALA Scholarships</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/aboutala/offices/hrdr/scholarshipprgm/faqalascholarship" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/14400">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/scholarships/directory" title="National, State, Local, and Academic sources of financial assistance" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/59933">Financial Assistance Directory</a> </li> <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/ala-general-scholarship-50th-anniversary" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/13102">ALA General Scholarship 50th Anniversary</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="has-child expanded unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/libcareers/become" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/13326">Become a Librarian</a> <span class="below" @click="show = !show"></span> <ul x-show="show" class="sidebar-nav list-style-none pl-0 ml-0 lg:max-w-[340px] w-full" > <li class="unlocked relative inline-block items-center pl-0 w-full border-b border-gray-200" x-data="{ show: false }" :class="{ 'active': show }" > <a href="/educationcareers/libcareers/choose" class="max-w-[90%] font-bitter text-base text-black no-underline py-5 inline-block" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/8077">Choosing a School</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav> <button class="btn-white sidebar-nav-toggle">Menu <span class="toggle-nav"><span>Toggle navigation</span></span></button> </div> <div class="node__main w-full xl:max-w-940 xl:ml-[7.5rem] xl:text-lg"> <div class="px-6 mx-auto mt-12 xl:px-0 xl:max-w-[940px] xl:text-lg"> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><!DOCTYPE html> <html><body><p><a href="/accreditedprograms/standards/glossary" target="_self" title="accreditation glossary">Accreditation Glossary</a></p> <p><a href="/sites/default/files/educationcareers/content/reportspublications/reports/CoA_Presentation_2021_Feb.pptx">Presentation on accreditation [PP]</a></p> <h2>We are often asked:</h2> <ul> <li><a href="#what_programs_are_accredited" target="_self" title="what programs are accredited?">What programs are accredited by ALA?</a></li> <li><a href="#what_is_accreditation" target="_self" title="what is accreditation">What is accreditation?</a></li> <li><a href="#erp_volunteering" target="_self" title="erp volunteering">How do I volunteer to serve on an accreditation review team?</a></li> <li><a href="#appropriate_degree_for_librarian" target="_self" title="appropriate degree for librarian">What is the appropriate degree to be a professional librarian?</a></li> <li><a href="#degree_name_differences" target="_self" title="">What is the difference between the MLS, the MILS, the MLIS, etc.?</a></li> <li><a href="#What%20should%20I%20major%20in%20as%20an%20undergraduate?">What should I major in as an undergraduate if I want to go on to get an MLIS degree?</a></li> <li><a href="#unaccredited_degree" target="_self" title="unaccredited degree">I graduated from an unaccredited program. Are there courses or tests I can take to be accredited?</a></li> <li><a href="#foreign_degree_-_student" target="_self" title="foreign degree - student">I have a degree from a foreign institution. How can I find out if it is equivalent to an ALA-accredited master's? What courses or tests can I take to be accredited?</a></li> </ul> <h2>Potential students often ask:</h2> <ul type="disc"> <li><a href="#why_go_to_accredited_program" target="_self" title="why_go_to_accredited_program">Why should I go to an accredited program?</a></li> <li><a href="#online_degree" target="_self" title="online degree options">I want to get my degree on-line. What accredited programs provide distance learning opportunities?</a></li> <li><a href="#best_program" target="_self" title="">What is the "best" program?</a></li> <li><a href="#financial_aid_and_scholarships" target="_self" title="scholarships_and_financial_aid">Where can I get information about scholarships and financial aid?</a></li> <li><a href="#entry_requirements" target="_self" title="entry_requirements">What are the requirements to enter an ALA-accredited program?</a></li> <li><a href="#undergraduate_library_science_degrees" target="_self" title="undergraduate_library_science_degrees">What institutions offer undergraduate or associate's level programs in library and information studies?</a></li> <li><a href="#undergraduate_degree_accreditation" target="_self" title="undergraduate_degree_accreditation">Are the undergraduate or associate's level programs accredited?</a></li> </ul> <h2>Employers often ask:</h2> <ul> <li><a href="#foreign_degree_-_employers" target="_self" title="foreign_degrees_-_employers">We have a candidate from a foreign institution. How can I find out if it is the equivalent of an ALA-accredited master's?</a></li> <li><a href="#historical_list" target="_self" title="historical_list">We have a candidate from a program I don't recognize. Has it been, or is it, accredited by ALA?</a></li> </ul> <p>--------------------------------------------------------------------------------</p> <p><a id="what_programs_are_accredited"> </a>Q: What programs are accredited by ALA?<br><br> A: ALA accredits 68 programs at 64 institutions in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Please see the <a href="/accreditedprograms/directory/search" target="_self" title="searchable lis directory">directory</a> for the complete list.</p> <p><a id="what_is_accreditation"> </a>Q: What is accreditation?<br><br> A: Accreditation is a voluntary system of evaluation of higher education institutions and programs. It is a collegial process based on self-evaluation and peer-assessment for improvement of academic quality and public accountability. Accreditation assures that higher education institutions and their units, schools, or programs meet appropriate standards of quality and integrity.</p> <p>Accreditation is both a process and a condition. The process entails the assessment of educational quality and the continued enhancement of educational operations through the development and validation of standards. The condition provides a credential to the public-at-large indicating that an institution and/or its programs have accepted and are fulfilling their commitment to educational quality.</p> <p><a id="erp_volunteering"> </a>Q: How do I volunteer to serve on an accreditation review team?<br><br> A: We ask that you complete the External Review Panel member <a href="/accreditedprograms/resourcesforerp/becomereviewer/ERPform" target="_self" title="erp information form">information form</a> and send us a copy of your resume. You will then be added to our pool of volunteers and receive information about training sessions. Trained panelists for specific reviews are selected by the Committee on Accreditation (COA) about 18 months prior to the actual review visit, so it may take a two or more years in the pool before you are placed on a panel. Please see <a href="/accreditedprograms/resourcesforerp/ERP_service_info" target="_self" title="erp_service_info">ERP service information</a> for timeline, responsibilities, and typical activities.</p> <p><a id="appropriate_degree_for_librarian"> </a>Q: What is the appropriate degree to be a professional librarian?<br><br> A: ALA policy 54.2 states: "The master's degree from a <a href="/accreditedprograms/directory" target="_self" title="">program accredited by the American Library Association</a> (or from a master's level program in library and information studies accredited or recognized by the appropriate national body of another country) is the appropriate professional degree for librarians."</p> <p>For school librarian teachers, ALA policy B.9.2.2 (formerly ALA Policy 54.2.2) states: "The master's degree in librarianship from a <a href="/accreditedprograms/directory" target="_self" title="">program accredited by the American Library Association</a> or a master’s degree with a specialty in school librarianship from an <a href="http://www.ala.org/aasl/aasleducation/schoollibrary/ncateaaslreviewed">ALA/AASL Nationally Recognized program</a> in an educational unit accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation is the appropriate first professional degree for school librarians."</p> <p><a></a>Q: What should I major in as an undergraduate if I want to go on to get an MLIS degree?<br><br> A: Your undergraduate major can be in anything you choose, as long as it is from an accredited institution. An undergraduate degree in library science is not necessary. If you think you would like to work in a particular type of library, a degree in a related field may be useful. For example, a bachelor’s degree in a science or health-care field combined with an MLIS might make you a good candidate for a position as a medical librarian. If you want to be a librarian in a university music library, an undergraduate degree in music would be helpful.</p> <p><a id="degree_name_differences"> </a>Q: What is the difference between the MLS, the MILS, the MLIS, etc.?<br><br> A: The master’s degree in library and information studies is frequently referred to as the MLS; however, ALA-accredited degrees have various names such as Master of Information Studies, Master of Information, Master of Arts, Master of Librarianship, Master of Library and Information Studies, or Master of Science. The degree name is determined by the program. The Committee for Accreditation evaluates programs based on their adherence to the <a href="/accreditedprograms/standards" target="_self" title="standards_for_accreditation">Standards for Accreditation of Master's Programs in Library and Information Studies</a>, not based on the name of the degree.</p> <p>Some institutions offer more than one information- or library-related degree, but not all degree programs are accredited by the ALA. Only those specific master’s degree programs that have been reviewed and approved by the Committee on Accreditation are considered to be ALA-accredited.</p> <p><a id="unaccredited_degree"> </a>Q: I graduated from an non-accredited program. Are there courses or tests I can take to be accredited?<br><br> A: Unfortunately, there is no set of courses or tests that can be taken to "receive" an accredited degree. You would need to attend an ALA-accredited program for another master's degree.</p> <p><a id="foreign_degree_-_student"> </a>Q: I have a degree from a foreign institution. How can I find out if it is equivalent to an ALA-accredited master's? What courses or tests can I take to be accredited?<br><br> A: Ultimately, it is up to the employer to determine whether or not to accept a foreign degree as equivalent to an ALA-accredited master's. There is no set of courses or tests to take to be "accredited." The ALA <a href="/educationcareers/employment/foreigncredentialing/forjobseekers" target="_self" title="foreign_credentials_evaluation">Office for Human Resource Development and Recruitment</a> has identified agencies that, for a fee, will evaluate foreign credentials.</p> <p><a id="why_go_to_accredited_program"> </a>Q: Why should I go to an accredited program?<br><br> A: Graduating from an ALA-accredited program provides greater flexibility in the types of libraries and jobs you can apply for and enhances your career mobility. Most employers require an ALA-accredited master's for most professional level positions, and some states require an ALA-accredited degree to work as a professional librarian in public or school libraries. ALA accreditation indicates that the program has undergone a self-evaluation process, been reviewed by peers, and meets the <a href="/accreditedprograms/standards" target="_self" title="standards_for_accreditation">Standards</a> established by the American Library Association and Committee on Accreditation.</p> <p>Please see the <a href="http://www.ala.org/accreditedprograms/guidelines-choosing-masters-program-library-and-information-studies">"Guidelines for choosing a master's program in library and information studies"</a> for more information.</p> <p><a id="online_degree"> </a>Q: I want to get my degree on-line. What accredited programs provide distance learning opportunities?<br><br> A: Please search for distance learning opportunities in the online <a href="/accreditedprograms/directory/search" target="_self" title="searchable lis directory">directory of ALA-Accredited LIS Programs</a>. Because distance education offerings change frequently, you should contact the programs you are interested in for the most current information on distance education offerings and requirements.</p> <p><a id="best_program"> </a>Q: What is the "best" program?<br><br> A: Accreditation does not result in a ranking or comparison of programs. The decision about what program is "best" is up to the individual student. To help in your decision we suggest that you review the program's website; talk to the faculty, students, and alumni; ask librarians in your area to answer questions about your specific interests and concerns. Please see the "Guidelines for choosing a master's program in library and information studies" for more suggestions.</p> <p>Surveys that result in rankings of LIS programs are published in both professional and popular journals. Please keep in mind that your questions and criteria may not be the same as those used for these surveys.</p> <p><a id="financial_aid_and_scholarships"> </a>Q: Where can I get information about scholarships and financial aid?<br><br> A: ALA maintains information about <a href="/educationcareers/scholarships" target="_self" title="">scholarships for library and information studies</a>. You should also contact the programs you are interested in to learn about scholarships and financial aid offered by that institution.</p> <p><a id="entry_requirements"> </a>Q: What are the requirements to enter an ALA-accredited program?<br><br> A: Entry requirements are established by the individual programs and institutions. All programs require a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and many require you to submit GRE or other standardized test scores. Contact the programs you are interested in for their specific requirements.</p> <p><a id="undergraduate_library_science_degrees"> </a>Q: What institutions offer undergraduate or associate's level programs in library and information studies?<br><br> A: The ALA Office for Human Resources and Human Development maintains information about undergraduate or associate's programs. Many of the schools that have ALA-accredited master's programs also offer undergraduate majors and minors.</p> <p><a id="undergraduate_degree_accreditation"> </a>Q: Are the undergraduate or associate's level programs accredited?<br><br> A: ALA accredits only programs leading to a master's degree. At present, there is no agency that accredits undergraduate or associate's programs in library and information studies.</p> <p><a id="foreign_degree_-_employers"> </a>Q: We have a candidate from a foreign institution. How can I find out if it is the equivalent of an ALA-accredited master's?<br><br> A: The ALA <a href="/educationcareers/employment/foreigncredentialing/foremployers" target="_self" title="foreign_credentials_evaluation">Office for Human Resource Development and Recruitment</a> has identified agencies that, for a fee, will evaluate foreign credentials. Ultimately, it is up to you to determine whether or not to accept a foreign degree as equivalent to an ALA-accredited master's.</p> <p><a id="historical_list"> </a>Q: We have a candidate from a specific program or one I don't recognize. Has it been, or is it, accredited by ALA?<br><br> A: The Office for Accreditation maintains a <a href="/accreditedprograms/directory/historicallist" target="_self" title="historical_list_of_accredited_programs">list of all programs that have been accredited by ALA</a>.The dates on this list indicate the effective dates of accreditation for that program.</p> </body></html> </div> </div>   </div> </div> </div> <div class="share flex my-12 lg:my-12 mr-auto ml-auto"> <ul class="flex flex-col md:flex-row flex-nowrap items-center ml-auto mr-auto gap-1 lg:gap-[2rem]"> <li> <a class="flex flex-nowrap items-end" href="mailto:?subject=Accreditation Frequently Asked Questions&body=https://www.ala.org/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/faq"> <span class="bg-shareIconBackground w-[48px] h-[48px] pb-4 pt-[13px] rounded-full flex justify-center items-center"> <img class="max-w-[24px]" src="/themes/custom/ala/assets/images/svg/email-2.svg" alt="Email icon"> </span> <p data-history-node-id="16545" data-has-sidebar="true" class="node node--type-flex-page node--view-mode-full node--show-sidebar mx-[17px] uppercase text-[14px]">Email</p> </a> </li> <li x-data="{print}"> <a class="flex flex-nowrap items-end cursor-pointer" href="#" x-on:click.prevent="window.print()"> <span class="bg-shareIconBackground w-[48px] h-[48px] pb-4 pt-[13px] rounded-full flex justify-center items-center"> <img src="/themes/custom/ala/assets/images/svg/print.svg" alt="Print icon"> </span> <p data-history-node-id="16545" data-has-sidebar="true" class="node node--type-flex-page node--view-mode-full node--show-sidebar mx-[17px] uppercase text-[14px]">Print</p> </a> </li> <li><a class="flex flex-nowrap items-end" href="https://www.ala.org/cite?query=node/16545&title=Accreditation%20Frequently%20Asked%20Questions&url=https%3A//www.ala.org/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/faq"> <span class="bg-shareIconBackground w-[48px] h-[48px] pb-4 pt-[13px] rounded-full flex justify-center items-center"> <img src="/themes/custom/ala/assets/images/svg/cite.svg" alt="Cite icon"> </span> <p data-history-node-id="16545" data-has-sidebar="true" class="node node--type-flex-page node--view-mode-full node--show-sidebar mx-[17px] uppercase text-[14px]">Cite</p> </a> </li> <li class="relative" x-data="{ open: false }"> <a class="flex flex-nowrap items-end cursor-pointer" href="#" x-on:click.prevent="open = ! open"> <span class="bg-shareIconBackground w-[48px] h-[48px] pb-4 pt-[13px] rounded-full flex justify-center items-center"> <img src="/themes/custom/ala/assets/images/svg/share.svg" alt="Share icon"> </span> <p data-history-node-id="16545" data-has-sidebar="true" class="node node--type-flex-page node--view-mode-full node--show-sidebar mx-[17px] uppercase text-[14px]">Share This Page</p> </a> <div x-show="open"> <div class="region region-sharing share--buttons absolute bottom-[-3rem] left-[2rem]"> <div id="block-addtoanysharebuttons" class="block block-addtoany block-addtoany-block relative z-10"> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="https://www.ala.org/educationcareers/accreditedprograms/faq" data-a2a-title="Accreditation Frequently Asked Questions"><a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ala.org%2Feducationcareers%2Faccreditedprograms%2Ffaq&title=Accreditation%20Frequently%20Asked%20Questions"></a><a class="a2a_button_facebook"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="1.125em" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="#636770"><path d="M504 256C504 119 393 8 256 8S8 119 8 256c0 123.78 90.69 226.38 209.25 245V327.69h-63V256h63v-54.64c0-62.15 37-96.48 93.67-96.48 27.14 0 55.52 4.84 55.52 4.84v61h-31.28c-30.8 0-40.41 19.12-40.41 38.73V256h68.78l-11 71.69h-57.78V501C413.31 482.38 504 379.78 504 256z" /></svg></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="1.125em" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="#636770"><path d="M459.37 151.716c.325 4.548.325 9.097.325 13.645 0 138.72-105.583 298.558-298.558 298.558-59.452 0-114.68-17.219-161.137-47.106 8.447.974 16.568 1.299 25.34 1.299 49.055 0 94.213-16.568 130.274-44.832-46.132-.975-84.792-31.188-98.112-72.772 6.498.974 12.995 1.624 19.818 1.624 9.421 0 18.843-1.3 27.614-3.573-48.081-9.747-84.143-51.98-84.143-102.985v-1.299c13.969 7.797 30.214 12.67 47.431 13.319-28.264-18.843-46.781-51.005-46.781-87.391 0-19.492 5.197-37.36 14.294-52.954 51.655 63.675 129.3 105.258 216.365 109.807-1.624-7.797-2.599-15.918-2.599-24.04 0-57.828 46.782-104.934 104.934-104.934 30.213 0 57.502 12.67 76.67 33.137 23.715-4.548 46.456-13.32 66.599-25.34-7.798 24.366-24.366 44.833-46.132 57.827 21.117-2.273 41.584-8.122 60.426-16.243-14.292 20.791-32.161 39.308-52.628 54.253z" /></svg></a><a class="a2a_button_linkedin"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="1.125em" viewBox="0 0 448 512" fill="#636770"><path d="M416 32H31.9C14.3 32 0 46.5 0 64.3v383.4C0 465.5 14.3 480 31.9 480H416c17.6 0 32-14.5 32-32.3V64.3c0-17.8-14.4-32.3-32-32.3zM135.4 416H69V202.2h66.5V416zm-33.2-243c-21.3 0-38.5-17.3-38.5-38.5S80.9 96 102.2 96c21.2 0 38.5 17.3 38.5 38.5 0 21.3-17.2 38.5-38.5 38.5zm282.1 243h-66.4V312c0-24.8-.5-56.7-34.5-56.7-34.6 0-39.9 27-39.9 54.9V416h-66.4V202.2h63.7v29.2h.9c8.9-16.8 30.6-34.5 62.9-34.5 67.2 0 79.7 44.3 79.7 101.9V416z" /></svg></a><a class="a2a_button_email"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" height="1.125em" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="#636770"><path d="M64 112c-8.8 0-16 7.2-16 16v22.1L220.5 291.7c20.7 17 50.4 17 71.1 0L464 150.1V128c0-8.8-7.2-16-16-16H64zM48 212.2V384c0 8.8 7.2 16 16 16H448c8.8 0 16-7.2 16-16V212.2L322 328.8c-38.4 31.5-93.7 31.5-132 0L48 212.2zM0 128C0 92.7 28.7 64 64 64H448c35.3 0 64 28.7 64 64V384c0 35.3-28.7 64-64 64H64c-35.3 0-64-28.7-64-64V128z" /></svg></a></span> </div> </div> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </article> </div> </div> </div> </div> </main> <footer role="contentinfo"> <div class="region region-footer"> <nav id="block-footer-2" class="block block-system block-system-menu-blockfooter border-t pt-14 xl:py-14" aria-labelledby="block-footer-2" role="navigation"> <div class="flex xl:container flex-col xl:flex-row items-center xl:items-start text-center xl:text-left pb-12 xl:pb-0"> <div class="mb-12 xl:mb-0"> <a href="/" rel="home" class="inline-block pl-5 xl:pl-0" aria-label="ALA logo"> <img src="/themes/custom/ala/assets/images/svg/ala-footer-logo.svg" alt=" site logo"> </a> <p class="m-0 mt-9 text-base font-normal text-offBlack opacity-80">225 N Michigan Ave., Ste 1300</p> <p class="m-0 text-base font-normal text-offBlack opacity-80">Chicago, IL 60601</p> <p class="m-0 text-base font-normal text-offBlack opacity-80">1.800.545.2433</p> </div> <div class="xl:ml-auto"> <ul class="relative xl:grid xl:grid-cols-2 xl:gap-4 xl:gap-x-28 xl:gap-y-8 menu--footer xl:border-r xl:pr-24"> <li class="mb-12 xl:mb-0"> <a href="https://www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/home" class="text-sm font-bold uppercase tracking-widest" title="Offices" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17266">Offices</a> </li> <li class="mb-12 xl:mb-0"> <a href="https://www.ala.org/news" class="text-sm font-bold uppercase tracking-widest" title="News & Press" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/59884">News & Press</a> </li> <li class="mb-12 xl:mb-0"> <a href="https://www.ala.org/aboutala/divs" class="text-sm font-bold uppercase tracking-widest" title="Divisions" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/59964">Divisions</a> </li> <li class="mb-12 xl:mb-0"> <a href="https://www.ala.org/aboutala/contactus/workatala" class="text-sm font-bold uppercase tracking-widest" title="Work at ALA" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/14392">Work at ALA</a> </li> <li class="mb-12 xl:mb-0"> <a href="https://www.ala.org/aboutala/rts" class="text-sm font-bold uppercase tracking-widest" title="Round Tables" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/59965">Round Tables</a> </li> <li class="mb-12 xl:mb-0"> <a href="https://www.alastore.ala.org/" class="text-sm font-bold uppercase tracking-widest" title="Shop">Shop</a> </li> <li class="mb-12 xl:mb-0"> <a href="https://www.ala.org/aboutala/committees" class="text-sm font-bold uppercase tracking-widest" title="Committees" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/16494">Committees</a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="xl:ml-32"> <div class="hidden xl:block"> <div class="field field--name-field-components field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--social-media-links paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="social-media-list mb-6"> <ul class="flex"> <li class="p-1.5 bg-[#eff1f3] rounded-3xl mr-3 flex items-center justify-center"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AmericanLibraryAssociation" class="facebook-logo inline-block indent-96" target="_blank">facebook</a></li> <li class="p-1.5 bg-[#eff1f3] rounded-3xl mr-3 flex items-center justify-center"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/americanlibraryassociation/" class="instagram-logo inline-block indent-96" target="_blank">instagram</a></li> <li class="p-1.5 bg-[#eff1f3] rounded-3xl mr-3 flex items-center justify-center"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-library-association" class="linkedin-logo inline-block indent-96" target="_blank">linkedin</a></li> <li class="p-1.5 bg-[#eff1f3] rounded-3xl mr-3 flex items-center justify-center"><a href="https://youtube.com/user/AmLibraryAssociation" class="youtube-logo inline-block indent-96" target="_blank">youtube</a></li> <li class="p-1.5 bg-[#eff1f3] rounded-3xl mr-3 flex items-center justify-center"><a href="https://www.threads.net/@americanlibraryassociation" class="threads-logo inline-block indent-96" target="_blank">threads</a></li> <li class="p-1.5 bg-[#eff1f3] rounded-3xl mr-3 flex items-center justify-center"><a href="https://bsky.app/profile/amlibraryassoc.bsky.social" class="bluesky-logo inline-block indent-96" target="_blank">bluesky</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <a href="/donate" class="font-medium text-lg text-white py-1.5 px-10 bg-mainRed font-bitter hover:opacity-50">Donate</a> </div> </div> </nav> <nav id="block-footerutility-2" class="block block-menu navigation menu--footer-utility static xl:relative sidebar-menu" aria-labelledby="block-footerutility-2-menu" role="navigation"> <h2 class="visually-hidden" id="block-footerutility-2-menu" class="hidden">Footer Utility</h2> <div class="flex xl:container py-6 xl:py-8 border-t flex-col xl:flex-row items-center xl:items-start"> <div class="xl:hidden"> <div class="field field--name-field-components field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--social-media-links paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="social-media-list mb-6"> <ul class="flex"> <li class="p-1.5 bg-[#eff1f3] rounded-3xl mr-3 flex items-center justify-center"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AmericanLibraryAssociation" class="facebook-logo inline-block indent-96" target="_blank">facebook</a></li> <li class="p-1.5 bg-[#eff1f3] rounded-3xl mr-3 flex items-center justify-center"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/americanlibraryassociation/" class="instagram-logo inline-block indent-96" target="_blank">instagram</a></li> <li class="p-1.5 bg-[#eff1f3] rounded-3xl mr-3 flex items-center justify-center"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-library-association" class="linkedin-logo inline-block indent-96" target="_blank">linkedin</a></li> <li class="p-1.5 bg-[#eff1f3] rounded-3xl mr-3 flex items-center justify-center"><a href="https://youtube.com/user/AmLibraryAssociation" class="youtube-logo inline-block indent-96" target="_blank">youtube</a></li> <li class="p-1.5 bg-[#eff1f3] rounded-3xl mr-3 flex items-center justify-center"><a href="https://www.threads.net/@americanlibraryassociation" class="threads-logo inline-block indent-96" target="_blank">threads</a></li> <li class="p-1.5 bg-[#eff1f3] rounded-3xl mr-3 flex items-center justify-center"><a href="https://bsky.app/profile/amlibraryassoc.bsky.social" class="bluesky-logo inline-block indent-96" target="_blank">bluesky</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <ul class="flex menu--footer_utility flex-wrap xl:flex-nowrap justify-center xl:justify-normal"> <li class="text-footerGrey"> <a href="https://www.ala.org/aboutala/sitesdirectory" class="text-base font-normal text-footerGrey align-sub" title="ALA Websites" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/59883">ALA Websites</a> </li> <li class="text-footerGrey"> <a href="https://www.ala.org/accessibility-commitment" class="text-base font-normal text-footerGrey align-sub" title="Accessibility" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/60569">Accessibility</a> </li> <li class="text-footerGrey"> <a href="https://www.ala.org/privacypolicy" class="text-base font-normal text-footerGrey align-sub" title="Privacy Policy" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15423">Privacy Policy</a> </li> <li class="text-footerGrey"> <a href="https://www.ala.org/user-guidelines" class="text-base font-normal text-footerGrey align-sub" title="User Guidelines" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/15398">User Guidelines</a> </li> <li class="text-footerGrey"> <a href="/sitemap.xml" class="text-base font-normal text-footerGrey align-sub" title="Site Index" data-drupal-link-system-path="sitemap.xml">Site Index</a> </li> <li class="text-footerGrey"> <a href="https://www.ala.org/footer-feedback" class="text-base font-normal text-footerGrey align-sub" title="Feedback" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/19486">Feedback</a> </li> <li class="text-footerGrey"> <a href="https://www.ala.org/aboutala/contactus/workatala" class="text-base font-normal text-footerGrey align-sub" title="Work at ALA" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/14392">Work at ALA</a> </li> </ul> <p class="text-base font-normal text-footerGrey xl:ml-auto align-sub mt-4 xl:mt-0">© 1996–2025 American Library Association</p> </div> </nav> </div> </footer> </div> </div> <script src="https://static.addtoany.com/menu/page.js" async></script> <script src="/sites/default/files/js/js_jFjx67_FyNjMeveiSGrokPcqUUxfC--fZBGP27ILMAA.js?scope=footer&delta=1&language=en&theme=ala&include=eJxdx0EKgDAMBMAP1eZJstJ2scREbA76e0G86G0GpYTDLsGL3A63SFAI1RfoQ-i-Wp36SHSn1jlAYWzfgv9ndJw3gngl7g"></script> <script src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/alpinejs/alpine@v2.x.x/dist/alpine.min.js" defer></script> </body> </html>

CINXE.COM

Accreditation Frequently Asked Questions | ALA