Accreditation
Accreditation Overview
What HCDE accreditation is, what it rests on, what it gives an institution and what it does not.
HCDE accreditation is a considered judgement that an institution, training center or online program meets published standards for quality in distance and online education. It is granted for a stated period, recorded in a public registry and kept under review through annual monitoring.
What it rests on
Published standards
Eight standards, each with its own page, describe what HCDE assesses.
A defined process
Six stages from inquiry to annual monitoring, the same for every applicant.
A written decision
Every decision comes with reasons and a right of appeal.
A public record
The registry shows status, dates and notices, and can be checked by anyone.
What accreditation can give you
- An independent, evidence-based statement of quality that learners, employers and partners can verify.
- A structured self-study that shows you where you are strong and where to improve.
- A clear framework for ongoing improvement, with annual monitoring rather than a single event.
- The right to use the HCDE mark, within the scope of your certificate.
What it does not do
HCDE is a private, independent, non-governmental body. Its accreditation rests on its own published standards and does not constitute governmental recognition.
- It is not a licence to operate or a government approval.
- It does not guarantee that a qualification will be accepted by a particular employer, authority or university.
- It does not rank institutions against each other.
Where to go next
Questions before you begin?
Write to HCDE and we will explain the route that fits your institution, program or situation.