Here's why:
* Regional Accreditation: Regional accrediting agencies are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and are generally considered the gold standard. They conduct rigorous reviews of the school's programs, faculty, resources, and overall quality. Credits earned from regionally accredited institutions are more likely to be transferable to other colleges and universities, and are often required for professional licensing or certifications. Examples include the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, and others. The specific agency depends on the school's geographic location.
* National Accreditation: While national accreditation exists, it's generally less rigorous than regional accreditation. These agencies often accredit a wider range of institutions, including some that might not meet the same standards as regionally accredited schools. Credits earned from nationally accredited institutions might be less transferable.
* Program-Specific Accreditation: In addition to the overall accreditation of the school, look for program-specific accreditation if applicable. For example, if you're studying nursing, the program should be accredited by a nursing accrediting body. This ensures the program meets the standards of the profession.
In short: Always check for regional accreditation first. If a school only has national accreditation, proceed with caution and carefully research its reputation and the transferability of its credits. Don't solely rely on online reviews; consult the accreditation agency's website to verify the school's accreditation status.