Definition: A process of quality assurance through which recognition is granted by competent authorities to confirm standards of education established by professional authorities have been met.
In Canada, this term is usually not used in the case of individuals or educational institutions; it applies only to educational programs of study. The process usually includes self-assessment by the program under review and on-site visits by qualified, external reviewers from government and/or nongovernmental agencies. Degrees, diplomas, or certificates from non-accredited programs do not have the same status as those issued by accredited programs and may not be recognized at all. A program’s accreditation status is normally subject to periodic review and may be withdrawn by relevant professional authorities.