Entry Level Provisional Accreditation
Accreditation – Provisional is a status conferred when the proposed program’s plans and resource allocation, if executed as intended, indicate the program’s capacity to meet the ARC-PA Standards, even though it has not yet enrolled students. Similarly, a program holding accreditation-provisional status may demonstrate ongoing progress in adhering to the Standards as it readies for the graduation of its inaugural class (cohort) of students.
The provisional accreditation process begins with a thorough review of the planning, organization, and proposed content of a program that is in the advanced planning stages, but not yet operational. The provisional accreditation pathway is the only entry way for proposed new programs into the accreditation process.
Eligibility
ARC-PA accredits solely those PA programs offered by or situated within institutions chartered by and physically located within the United States, where students receive their education within the country’s borders.
A distinct institution must be unequivocally designated as the sponsor of the program. Sponsoring institutions seeking provisional accreditation for a new PA program must be legally authorized to provide post-secondary education programs. Furthermore, they must hold accreditation from a recognized regional accrediting agency, be in good standing with said agency, and possess authorization to confer graduate degrees upon graduates of the PA program.
Entering the Process
To commence the provisional accreditation process, a representative from the proposed sponsoring institution must reach out to Accreditation Services at the ARC-PA to confirm institutional eligibility. Upon confirming the program’s eligibility, the ARC-PA furnishes the program with details regarding the application process and the timeline for evaluation. The process is presented here in flow sheet format.
Acquiring accreditation-provisional status does not guarantee subsequent accreditation. Just like other accredited programs, if severe issues arise regarding the institution’s or program’s ability to demonstrate compliance with the Standards at any stage of the provisional process, it may lead to an adverse accreditation decision. Programs that do not attain accreditation or have their accreditation revoked may reapply for provisional status at a later time.
If you are considering applying for accreditation, it is recommended to contact Accreditation Services (accreditationservices@arc-pa.org) to address your questions and initiate the process.