What does "RA" stand for in the distance learning conext? Feel free to point me to a FAQ, or glossary, but I didn't see one immediately with this information in it. TIA, =) sithEnder
As Rich correctly noted, RA = Regionally Accredited. This refers to the only type of accreditation that makes a nontraditonal degree legitimate. All other types of accreditation are for harlots and sluts, thieves and charlatans, theological whackos, bamboozlers and hucksters. Since you're a newbie, a little more explanation might help: RA refers to one of the six regional agencies that are approved by the U.S. Department of Education and the Commission on Postsecondary Accreditation, the two entities that "accredit the acreditors." A school is accredited by the agency that serves its specific region, or the region of its home campus, in the U.S., its territories and, on rare occasion, schools in other nations that have sought RA status (there are a few in Europe, for example). And you can disregard the statement abuot other types of accreditation. I just said that to piss off our resident theological whackos. Oh, and you needn't have a TIA;* we don't require such sacrifices here. ______________________ * Transient Ischemic Attack, better known as a mini-stroke.
I would like to add to Steve's comments that other forms of recognized accreditation seem to have some utility. Professional accreditation is useful in some academic and occupational arenas, and is required in others. Research has shown that national accreditation has some acceptance in the regional accredited world, but it is limited. ("Research" in this case doesn't mean that it has yet been published in a refereed academic journal.) Other research that will soon be published indicates broad acceptance of national accreditation for employment purposes as well. But regional accreditation is the widest, most acceptable form of institutional recognition of degree-granting schools in the U.S.
Awesome, thanks for the great feedback. These forums seem to have a very high quality of posters/postings. Thanks again, =) sithender
