Colleges and Schools
Education Accreditation FAQs
What Is NCATE (pronounced “EN-kate”) Accreditation?
NCATE is one of two national professional accrediting organizations for schools, colleges, and departments of education in the United States. “NCATE accreditation” refers to unit approval of an institution’s Department/School/College of Education by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. This is a form of specialized accreditation. The institution voluntarily applies to NCATE for this accreditation; in most states, including Minnesota, there is no requirement to do so. NCATE currently reviews about half of departments/schools/colleges of education in the United States.
Does Walden have NCATE Accreditation?
No, at this time Walden is not NCATE accredited. NCATE accreditation is a multi-level process that requires collection of a variety of types of evidence from graduates of a teacher preparation program, programs that are launching for the first time at Walden in January 2008. NCATE accreditation is not required for a teacher preparation program to be state-approved.
Does this mean you’re not an accredited institution/approved program?
No, Walden is a regionally accredited institution, and our teacher preparation program is a state-approved program through the Minnesota Board of Teaching.
Can I transfer credits to Walden?
You may request an unofficial analysis of your transcripts prior to your admission to the program. Our enrollment advisors can assist you with the credit-transfer process. Please contact them at 1-866-492-5336.
