The U.S. Department of Education approves the ACCSC as an official accrediting agency. According to the ACCSC's website, the Department of Education recognizes it as a private accreditation agency and the dedication given to ensuring students in vocational skills are given a standard education for their field of study.
The ACCSC looks at several factors before giving a vocational school accreditation. The agency considers the schools teaching methods and subject matter, as well as student achievement and success upon graduation. The student success rates that are considered include passing rates for licensure exams, job placement statistics upon graduation, and the relationship between the school's policy and student successes. Considerations for the school include appropriate technology, faculty and staff, learning system, financial capabilities and student services.
The ACCSC offers workshops for schools. There are two basic workshop options for vocational schools: initial applicant or accredited schools. The initial applicant workshops help schools attain accreditation and learn areas that need improvement. The workshops for accredited schools provide information on maintaining standards and address accreditation renewal applications.
The ACCSC provides benefits for students who are in a vocational school. Among the benefits is a high standard of education. Students attending an ACCSC-accredited vocational school can obtain an education in less time than at traditional colleges. Students are also able to file complaints with the agency if a school does not comply or fix the problem through their own complaint system, and the complaint is relevant to the accreditation standards.