To clarify recent updates regarding USDE waivers in response to COVID-19, institutions intending to offer distance education programs should be aware of the updated accreditation requirements.
Revised Submission Deadlines
Institutions planning to add distance education components to their academic offerings must submit a substantive change request by the designated deadline. This is particularly important for institutions whose current accreditation scope does not include distance education.
Recent Regulatory Changes
The United States Department of Education (USDE) has introduced new regulations governing distance education, which took effect on July 1, 2021. Institutions intending to offer distance education beyond the scope of prior waivers must now seek approval through the substantive change process.
Elimination of Previous Thresholds
The approval threshold for distance education by accreditors has been revised. Previously, institutions delivering less than 50% of their programs online were not subject to specific accreditation oversight. Under the updated guidelines, this exemption has been removed and all distance education offerings now require formal review and approval.
Technical Modifications to Guidelines
The Commission has implemented technical updates to its substantive change guidelines in response to federal regulatory changes. Effective November 1, 2021, the previous 50% threshold requirement for accreditor approval of distance education programs has been eliminated.
Submission Process
Institutions impacted by these revisions should submit an updated substantive change request using the revised form available on the Commission’s website. The deadline for submission is January 2024.
Integration into Accreditation Scope
Going forward, institutions must formally include distance education as an approved method of instructional delivery within their accreditation scope. This inclusion will be reviewed during all future accreditation evaluations.
Compliance with Substantive Change Policy
All institutions must adhere to the Substantive Change Policy and Procedures for any future modifications to program delivery formats. Prior approval from the Commission may be required before implementing such changes.
Contact Information
For questions regarding these requirements, or if your institution has not yet integrated distance education into its accreditation scope, please contact us at info@wdohec.org.
