If a school claims to be accredited, it is still to the potential student's benefit to ask for proof of this accreditation. If it is not clearly listed on the school's website or in their catalog, it may be up to the student to ask a staff member for more information. Asking about the agency that accredited the school is also important. The credentials of that agency can have a negative or positive effect on the value of the school's accreditation.
Even if a school is accredited, it could have a poor reputation. Prospective students can request information from their state attorney's office or from their local Better Business Bureau regarding the reputation of the school in question. Also, the reputation the school has in the professional world is significant. Students may want to ask professionals, business and companies about the reputation of the school and its alumni within their industries.
Prospective students can ask about the records of placement for the last few years. The school should offer information on how many graduates went on to attain successful careers and how many did not. Also, students can inquire into the school's work experience or work preparation programs. This will help students to further determine if the school offers what they are looking for.
Prospective students can ask school officials and staff members for contact information for recent alumni, older alumni and current students who are studying or have studied in the field the prospective student wishes to pursue. Testimonials and advice from these alumni and students may further inform the prospective student and help him to pick the school that tailors to his needs.