Accreditation is the most important thing you need to know about distance learning or online degrees. Accreditation separates the “real” schools that are accepted by other schools, employers and professional associations. A diploma from a non-accredited school is probably a waste of your time and effort.

Unfortunately, there are schools advertising for online degrees that are considered “diploma mills”. These are for profit sites that may offer “fast” degrees that will not be recognized by potential employers as being an adequate education for the position you are seeking. There are also online programs that promote free credit for “life experience”. Again, these credits may not be recognized as legitimate.

There are many accrediting agencies. For instance the National League of Nursing accredits nursing schools. The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) accredits Teaching or education schools. Law schools are accredited by the American Bar Association. Other professions have their own accrediting bodies.

» Read more: Online Degrees Pros and Cons – What You Need To Know About Accreditation