Experience ACCREDITING COMMISSION FOR theological higher edu

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 ACTHE welcomes applications from theological institutions offering classroom-based, online, distance-learning, hybrid, or ministry-based educational programs.

Applicant institutions may operate as incorporated organizations, church-sponsored ministries, Bible schools, seminaries, leadership institutes, or other faith-based educational entities. State licensure is welcomed but is not required for theological accreditation.

To qualify for accreditation, institutions must clearly articulate their mission, educational philosophy, goals, objectives, and commitment to providing quality theological education and ministry training.

 Institutions seeking ACTHE accreditation must demonstrate a clear and effective organizational structure that supports their mission, educational objectives, and overall institutional effectiveness. Roles and responsibilities for administration, faculty, and staff should be well defined to ensure accountability and efficient operation. Schools must maintain comprehensive records related to administration, academic programs, faculty, students, and institutional operations.

Each institution shall provide a structured curriculum with clearly written course descriptions, learning objectives, and program requirements. Educational programs should be supported by appropriate instructional resources, textbooks, learning materials, and academic tools necessary to achieve the stated outcomes of each course of study.

Curriculum content should reflect sound theological scholarship, recognized educational practices, and proven instructional materials suitable for higher-level theological education. Institutions must provide sufficient resources and learning opportunities to ensure students are adequately prepared to meet the educational and ministry objectives of their program.

 ACTHE-accredited institutions may award certificates, diplomas, and degrees consistent with their educational programs and applicable legal authority. Institutions offering degree programs must demonstrate that they possess the appropriate authorization, charter, ecclesiastical authority, denominational recognition, or legal standing required to confer such degrees within their operating framework.

All academic credentials awarded by an institution must accurately reflect the level of study completed and be supported by documented program requirements, academic standards, and institutional policies. ACTHE upholds integrity in theological education and expects member institutions to maintain honest, ethical, and transparent practices regarding the issuance of certificates, diplomas, and degrees.

 Faculty members should possess the education, training, experience, or demonstrated expertise necessary to effectively teach within their assigned areas of instruction. Institutions are expected to ensure that instructors are appropriately qualified and capable of delivering quality theological education. 

When instructors are developing their credentials or serving in specialized ministry roles, institutions should provide appropriate oversight, mentorship, or administrative supervision to support instructional effectiveness and academic integrity. Academic programs should be organized in a logical and progressive manner, allowing students to build knowledge and skills throughout their course of study. Schools should utilize structured instructional plans and assessment methods to evaluate student learning, academic progress, and program outcomes.  

Institutions are encouraged to maintain records of student achievement, graduation outcomes, ministry involvement, professional development, or other indicators that demonstrate the effectiveness of their educational programs and the successful fulfillment of their stated mission and objectives.

 Institutions seeking ACTHE accreditation must demonstrate that they have adequate facilities, administrative resources, or educational platforms necessary to support their programs and operations. Schools should maintain a verifiable physical location, administrative office, online learning infrastructure, or other appropriate operational facilities consistent with their educational model.

Institutions are expected to maintain sound financial practices that support the effective delivery of educational services, including operational expenses, faculty compensation, administrative costs, and institutional development. 

Schools should demonstrate financial responsibility, maintain accurate financial records, and implement budgeting processes that promote stability, accountability, and long-term sustainability. Institutions are encouraged to develop strategic plans that support future growth while ensuring continued fulfillment of their educational mission and objectives.

 Institutions applying for ACTHE accreditation should have a demonstrated history of educational operation and ministry effectiveness. Schools that have been actively operating for at least one year may apply for full accreditation review.

Institutions that have been in operation for less than one year may be granted Candidate Status, which recognizes their commitment to meeting ACTHE standards while they continue to develop their programs, policies, and operational history. Candidate Status may be maintained until the institution becomes eligible for full accreditation review. ACTHE may also consider schools with established histories of educational service, demonstrated institutional effectiveness, or accreditation through other recognized accrediting organizations.  

In such cases, prior experience, performance, and documented achievements may be considered during the accreditation evaluation process.

The purpose of Candidate Status is to encourage growth, promote accountability, and assist emerging institutions in achieving accreditation standards while maintaining educational quality and institutional integrity.