If you’re wondering whether Arizona State University (ASU) holds proper accreditation, the short answer is yes. ASU is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), one of the most respected regional accrediting bodies in the United States. This means that ASU’s degrees meet high academic standards and are widely recognized by employers, universities, and government institutions worldwide.
Let’s explore what this accreditation means for you and why it matters.
What Accreditation Means — And Why It’s Important
Accreditation is a rigorous process where independent organizations review universities to confirm they meet established standards of quality. Accreditation assures that a university:
- Provides high-quality teaching and resources
- Maintains financial and institutional integrity
- Supports student success and learning outcomes
In the U.S., regional accreditation like ASU’s is considered the gold standard. Without it, your degree might not be recognized by employers or other schools, and you might not qualify for financial aid.
ASU’s Accreditation Details
- Accrediting Body: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Status: Active
- First Accredited: 1931
- Last Review: 2018–2019
- Next Review: 2027–2028
ASU has continuously held HLC accreditation for nearly a century. This long history signals the university’s commitment to educational quality and continuous improvement.
Specialized Program Accreditations
In addition to overall university accreditation, many of ASU’s schools and programs have earned specialized accreditations. This assures students that their chosen programs also meet industry and academic standards.
Some examples include:
- W. P. Carey School of Business — AACSB
- Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering — ABET
- Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law — ABA
- Nursing and Health Innovation — CCNE
- Education (Teachers College) — CAEP
- Social Work — CSWE
These accreditations are especially important for students entering fields like business, engineering, law, nursing, education, and social work.
Why ASU’s Accreditation Matters to You
1. Credibility
Your ASU degree will be respected by employers and other universities.
2. Financial Aid
Only accredited universities can offer federal financial aid, including Pell Grants and student loans.
3. Transferable Credits
If you transfer or pursue graduate studies, accredited credits are more likely to be accepted.
4. Program Quality
Specialized accreditation ensures that your program prepares you for professional success.
Are ASU’s Online Programs Accredited?
Yes. ASU’s online degrees carry the same accreditation as on-campus programs. No matter where you study, you earn a fully accredited degree that holds the same value and recognition.
In fact, ASU Online ranks consistently among the top online programs in the U.S., according to U.S. News & World Report.
Global Recognition and Rankings
ASU doesn’t just meet minimum standards — it often exceeds them:
- #1 in Innovation (ahead of MIT and Stanford) — 9 years running
- Top 10 for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs
- Top 1% of global universities — Center for World University Rankings
These accolades reinforce ASU’s reputation as a leader in education and innovation.
How to Verify ASU’s Accreditation
For peace of mind, you can verify ASU’s accreditation directly:
- Higher Learning Commission: hlcommission.org
- U.S. Department of Education Database: ope.ed.gov/dapip
- CHEA Database: chea.org
Is ASU accredited? Without a doubt. Arizona State University holds full accreditation from the HLC and numerous specialized agencies. Whether you’re pursuing business, engineering, law, or social sciences, an ASU degree provides a credible, high-quality education that can open doors worldwide.
When choosing a university, accreditation isn’t just a checkbox — it’s the foundation of a degree that will serve you for a lifetime