Policies and Procedures: Manual, Substantive Change Guidelines and Templates
The ACEND Policy and Procedure Manual outlines an effective and efficient accreditation process, including fair and uniform application of the accreditation standards. This manual was developed for use by program directors, administrators, the ACEND® board, program reviewers and staff. ACEND policies and procedures align with U.S. Department of Education requirements of accreditors.
The U.S. Department of Education also requires ACEND to monitor and approve substantive changes that have the potential to affect the ability of an ACEND-accredited program to meet the Accreditation Standards. The Substantive Change Guidelines are meant to encourage responsible educational change and innovation for quality improvement, while protecting students and the public.
This page also has additional resources and templates to assist ACEND constituents in following the accreditation process.
Resources
- Distance Education: Substantive Change Determination Guide
- Guidance Document: Options for DI to Ensure Compliance with Standard 1, Required Element 1.4 (i.e., Graduate Degree)
Templates
- Program Director Change Template
- Teach out Plan Template
- Admission Hold Template
- Compliance with Required Element 1.4 – Graduate Degree Completion Template
- Distance Education Substantive Change Template (CP, DPD, DT, GP, FDE)
- Distance Education Substantive Change Template (DI and ISPP)
- Reorganization Report Template US-Based Programs (2022 Standards)
- Reorganization Report Template International Programs (2022 Standards)
Find an ACEND-Accredited Program
ACEND has more than 600 accredited programs across the United States and select countries internationally, with in-person and online options. Use the search filters to find the program that fits your needs.