To find accredited online schools, you should:
1. Start with your desired program: Search for online programs in your field of study (e.g., "accredited online MBA programs").
2. Check the school's website: Reputable accredited schools will prominently display their accreditation status on their website, usually with links to the accrediting agency.
3. Verify accreditation with the accrediting agency: Don't just take the school's word for it. Go to the website of the agency they claim to be accredited by (e.g., WASC, SACSCOC, DEAC, etc.) and search their database for the school. This ensures the accreditation is current and valid.
4. Understand the difference between regional and national accreditation:
* Regional accreditation is generally considered more prestigious and widely accepted. These agencies accredit schools within a specific geographic region. Examples include:
* WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges): Accredits schools in the western US.
* SACSCOC (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges): Accredits schools in the southern US.
* MSCHE (Middle States Commission on Higher Education): Accredits schools in the mid-Atlantic US.
* HLC (Higher Learning Commission): Accredits schools in the north-central US.
* NWCCU (Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities): Accredits schools in the northwest US.
* National accreditation is often granted to specific programs or types of schools. While it can be valid, it's not as widely recognized as regional accreditation. It's important to research the specific national accrediting agency to understand its reputation and acceptance.
5. Beware of unaccredited or poorly accredited institutions: An unaccredited school may not have the same level of academic rigor, and its credits may not be transferable to other institutions.
In short, there's no list I can provide here because the landscape is constantly changing, and relying on such a list would be irresponsible. You must do your own diligent research using the steps above to ensure the online school you choose is properly accredited and meets your needs. The U.S. Department of Education's website can also be a helpful resource in researching accrediting agencies.