* Rigor and Standards: Regionally accredited institutions generally adhere to stricter and more comprehensive accreditation standards than nationally accredited institutions like those previously accredited by ACICS (now defunct). These standards often translate to a more demanding curriculum and higher expectations for faculty qualifications and student learning outcomes in GE courses. ACICS's standards were historically considered less rigorous.
* Transferability: Credits earned at regionally accredited institutions are far more likely to transfer seamlessly to other colleges and universities, both regionally and nationally. Credits from nationally accredited institutions, especially those previously accredited by ACICS, are significantly less likely to be accepted without significant evaluation or may not transfer at all.
* Faculty Qualifications: Regionally accredited institutions typically have higher faculty qualification requirements, often demanding advanced degrees and relevant experience. While some nationally accredited institutions met certain standards, the overall bar was often lower.
* Institutional Resources: Regionally accredited colleges generally have greater resources – funding, libraries, technology, and support services – which can positively impact the quality of instruction and student experience in GE courses.
* Accreditation Oversight: Regional accreditors have a much more robust and established process for monitoring and evaluating institutions. This contributes to greater accountability and consistency in educational quality.
It's crucial to understand that ACICS is no longer an accrediting body. The Department of Education withdrew its recognition of ACICS in 2016 due to concerns about its accreditation practices. Colleges previously accredited by ACICS might still operate, but their accreditation is no longer valid, significantly impacting the value of their degrees and the transferability of their credits.
In short: While some individual courses at former ACICS-accredited institutions might have been comparable to those at regionally accredited institutions, the overall likelihood of a consistently higher quality and more readily transferable GE education at a regionally accredited institution is substantially greater. You should carefully research any institution, regardless of its past accreditation, before enrolling. Focus on the specific institution's reputation, faculty credentials, and program details, rather than solely relying on past accreditation status.