U.S. Education Department Proposes Major Overhaul of Higher Education Accreditation System

The U.S. Department of Education has issued a proposed rule aimed at revamping the nation's postsecondary quality assurance system. The changes seek to simplify the process of recognizing accreditors, promote a better return on investment for students, protect accreditors from undue influence from private trade associations, eliminate discrimination, and promote academic freedom, intellectual diversity, and research integrity. This initiative is intended to improve college affordability, reconnect education to workforce needs, strengthen accountability, and restore confidence in the accreditation system.