Deciding which MBA program to choose can feel overwhelming. There are many factors for MBA students to consider, including the duration of the program, the location, online or in-person, cost, and more. However, there is one factor that is often overlooked: a program’s accreditation. 

Accreditation is a demonstration of the quality of education offered by a program. A program earns accreditation by passing a process that is verified through peer review and self-review to ensure academic quality. A program’s stamp of accreditation shows that the program teaches accurate and current information, and holds institutions accountable for maintaining a high quality of education within their programs. 

It is important to note that there is a difference between a program’s accreditation and an institution’s accreditation. Institutional accreditation ensures that the entire school’s higher education programs pass the accreditation process, whereas programmatic accreditation means that a specific program has been verified through the accreditation process. 

An institution or program’s accreditation is determined by a third-party accreditation agency that is approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the US Department of Education. In the United States, an institution or program’s accreditation is usually determined by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). The AACSB is the most well-known and  highly regarded accrediting agency. If you are looking for AACSB accreditation, research AACSB-accredited schools in your region or online. More information about these accrediting agencies can be found here.

MBA accreditation ensures the quality of education, helps you stand out to current and future employers, and increases opportunities for MBA graduates. There are different types of accreditations, such as regional accreditations, national accreditations, and specialized accreditations. Regional accreditations tend to be more prestigious than national accreditations, considering regional accreditations are notably for non-profit and state schools, and national accreditation is usually given to for-profit and vocational schools. Specialized accreditations evaluate and award specific programs within an institution. 

Researching the accreditation of an MBA program before enrolling helps you identify the quality of the program so that you know you are enrolling in a program that will give you the highest return on your investment and education. The United States government also requires accredited schools to provide access to financial aid and grants, so finding an accredited program may mean you can receive financial assistance if necessary.

Understanding the Importance of MBA Accreditation

MBA accreditation is an important aspect of ensuring the quality and credibility of an MBA program. It is a mark of quality and reputation for an MBA program, and it is an important factor to consider when choosing a business school. Schools and programs that have gone through the accreditation process and received approval are able to prove that they provide quality education in their programs. Accredited educational programs that have climbed the rankings as a notable program show their reputation of rigorous education and willingness for quality improvement in the future. Accreditors ensure that each institution or program is living up to their accreditation, so you know that your MBA degree will hold its acclaim for the rest of your career.

A business administration degree from an accredited program or school seals your qualification and helps you stand out in your field. If your current or future employer sees that you accomplished an esteemed, accredited program, you are more likely to set yourself apart on your resume and by your job performance. It shows that you have the grit and rigor it takes to complete a prestigious program — and be a qualified employee. 

A business management degree from an accredited school or program indicates that you could be eligible for financial aid. Since the Department of Education endorses the reliability of accreditors, accredited institutions are required to provide access to financial aid. Your eligibility for financial aid may vary depending on your status and the status of the institution or program you choose, but it is a possibility in helping make your next career move more feasible.

Accredited MBA programs can also be internationally recognized. If you want to work in a different country or work with international partners, your MBA accreditation may transfer. MBA accreditation is usually recognized globally, and can show international partners that you are qualified and reputable.

If you are interested in browsing accredited schools around the world, the Association of MBAs has a guide and search.

The Role of Accrediting Bodies in MBA Programs

Though a program or institution’s accreditation status can vary, the accrediting party evaluates the program or institution through a streamlined, objective process. The institution or program performs a self-study to assess their current performance against the accreditor’s standards and expectations. If the self-study is passed, they will go into a peer review process with program or institutional stakeholders. Then, representatives from the accrediting agency will conduct a site visit to review their accreditation eligibility. Based on results from these three elements, the accreditors determine whether or not the program or institution will receive accreditation.

Once an MBA program has been evaluated and found to meet the academic standards of the accrediting agency, the program is granted accreditation. The program accreditation is valid for a specific period of time, after which it must be re-evaluated to maintain its accreditation through a recertification process.

It is possible that your bachelor’s degree is accredited if the institution you attended is an accredited school. Many degree programs or schools earn regional accreditation. Whether your MBA program is full-time or part-time, a stamp of regional accreditation may hold more weight than national accreditation. Regional accreditation shows that the entire institution achieves academic excellence and continues to perform at the highest academic standards. It is important to note that many MBA programs may only accept candidates with a bachelor’s from an accredited school.

Accrediting agencies like the ACBSP ensure that degree programs and schools meet specific criteria and educational standards. This is the very criteria that makes accreditation important for the future of your career. When you are ready to take the next step in your business education, be sure to choose from accredited degree programs.

What to Consider When Choosing an MBA Program with Accreditation

There are several important factors to consider when choosing an MBA program with accreditation. Careful research is required to ensure that you choose a highly accredited program that fits your needs and will give you a valuable experience and quality education. As mentioned, ensure that any institutions or programs you are considering have IACBE accreditation, ACBSP accreditation, or AACSB accreditation. These accrediting agencies ensure that the program or institution meets accreditation standards and is committed to continuous improvement — which maintains the prestige of your degree. 

Ranking and reputation are also factors to consider when choosing which program you will participate in. Look for schools and programs that rank high against other business schools and have a standing reputation in the business realm for producing high-achieving MBA graduates. Most programs and schools publish the statistics for their programs, so research these statistics when comparing. The reputation and accreditation of the program you choose will be attached to your degree, so carefully research which institution you want to be associated with. 

When researching accredited MBA programs, also consider which types of accreditation are important to you: regional, national, or specialized accreditation. Accreditation organizations will only endorse programs that fit their quality standards and expectations for academic excellence, but the ones available to you may depend on several factors, such as your location, schedule, and whether you choose to attend in-person or online.

Ultimately, it is important to evaluate which program will be most effective in helping you achieve your career goals. Whether that be a step toward a doctoral degree or climbing the corporate ladder, you can find a program whose curriculum and experiential learning fit your desired educational outcomes and long-term career advancement.

Carefully consider each of these factors so that you choose the accredited MBA program that will provide you with a valuable education and propel your career. The AMBA is a great tool to help you research accredited MBA programs.

The Value of an Accredited MBA Degree

Attaining an MBA degree with a high accreditation status, such as accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, can improve career opportunities, increase networking opportunities, and help you prepare for further education. Employers make note of your accomplishments, and having an esteemed MBA insinuates that you have learned and sharpened management development skills, communication skills, and your decision-making skills. This helps you stand out in your role and to employers because it shows them what kind of roles you will be successful in. 

Accredited MBA programs typically offer a diverse professional and alumni network. This can provide you with career-long opportunities to collaborate with people around the world, provide mentorship, expand your network across industries, and lead to potential job opportunities. Esteemed MBA programs also tend to have more desirable experiential learning opportunities, so you can apply the skills and knowledge you are learning in the program. Experiential learning provides you with real-world business situations that better equip you for further education and career advancement.

There are various accredited MBA programs. Whether you are searching for an in-person or online MBA program, you will be able to find one that fits your needs and career goals. If cost is a determining factor in which program you choose, remember that accredited programs offer access to financial aid.

The Benefits of Attending an Accredited MBA Program

There are ample benefits of attending an accredited MBA program. Prospective students should carefully research which MBA program best fits their budget, schedule, location, and career goals. During this research, it is crucial to compare educational institutions that are highly esteemed but that will also provide the highest possible return on your financial and professional investment. 

MBA graduates from accredited institutions are highly sought after by recruiters and employers. This achievement demonstrates that you have the skills and knowledge they are looking for, and may result in competitive job opportunities, salary increases, and better job security. The network you are introduced to in your program can also increase your chances at receiving better job opportunities and developing lasting relationships with others in your field. 

If you are seeking a new job or industry pivot, an accredited MBA program can help you attain that. Most accredited MBA programs and schools have career services that give you access to job openings, career coaching, and interview preparation. These services can equip you with the resources and knowledge you need to land your dream role. The simple prestige of your program is also a resume booster. 

If you are making an industry switch or looking to level up in your current industry, programmatic accreditation may be most valuable when comparing programs. Programmatic accreditation — also known as specialized accreditation — pertains to a specific accredited degree program rather than an accredited institution. For example, if you are looking to make an industry switch to accounting, you would look at accredited accounting MBA programs before looking at accredited business schools. This specialization gives you the skills and knowledge to make a successful industry switch.

Final Thoughts

Accreditation is an important factor in considering the quality of an MBA program, the value of the degree, and the importance of making an informed decision about furthering your education.

In short, obtaining an MBA from an accredited program or school can propel your career. An accredited MBA program ensures that you are getting top-notch education from a school that has committed to improvements — maintaining your degree’s prestige throughout your entire career. When choosing an accredited program, you know that you will sharpen essential skills and apply new knowledge to your current and future roles. Attending an accredited MBA program can also connect you with an expansive alumni network that can open you up to new job opportunities, partnerships, and other future opportunities. 

If you are considering enrolling in an MBA program, we recommend that you carefully research the accreditation of any MBA program you are considering. This is a pivotal career decision, so consider all factors that are important to you before finalizing your decision. If you want guidance in selecting which accredited MBA program is right for you, we can help! See you on the other side of your next career step.