Frequently Asked Questions

Have Questions? We've Got Answers!
We understand that navigating the accreditation process can sometimes raise questions. That's why we've compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQs). However, we know that everyone's situation is unique. That's why we encourage you to reach out for any additional inquiries you may have.

  • The steps for accreditation are outlined within the Accreditation Handbook and Self-Evaluation Guide found here on geroaccred.org. To start the process, you should request the Application for Accreditation from the AGEC Secretary. If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • AGHE’s Program of Merit (POM) process will remain the same and will continue to recognize excellence in gerontology minors, concentrations, certificates, and health professions programs. AGEC will work towards accrediting degree programs in gerontology at the associate, baccalaureate, and master’s levels.

    At the conclusion of the POM designation period, if a program is eligible for AGEC accreditation, the program will be advised to seek accreditation.

  • Currently, AGEC is only accrediting higher education degree-granting associate, baccalaureate, and master’s programs in gerontology. We recommend that programs with specific tracks in gerontology consider applying for the AGHE Program of Merit status.

  • Yes. You can seek accreditation for two programs at the same time. There is a discount for multiple programs - and they can be reviewed during the same site visit.

  • Yes. You can seek accreditation for two programs at different levels at the same time. If programs accredited at the same time are at different levels, each program accreditation will be treated independently. There is no discount for programs of different levels.

  • Initial accreditation is for five years. After five years you will receive notice from AGEC regarding reaccreditation. Subsequent reaccreditations will be granted for a period of seven years.

  • AGEC grew out of an AGHE task force on accreditation. However, a separate, independent 501c3 organization whose purpose is accreditation is required by organizations such as CHEA (Council on Higher Education Accreditation) and DOE (Department of Education) that recognize accrediting organizations. The educational organization (or association) of a field cannot be the same as the Accrediting body of that field. The accrediting body must be stand-alone.

  • AGEC is a 501c3 organization that collaborates with, but is independent from, the Gerontological Society of America and the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education.

  • AGEC is a 501c3 organized in 2016 in Washington, DC.

    AGEC is overseen by a Board of Governors of nine members representing higher education gerontology programs and entities associated with aging. A current list of the Board of Governors is available. The organizational structure also includes review teams and site visitors.

  • AGEC is funded through accreditation fees, grants, and donations.

  • At this time, AGEC only accredits higher education degree-granting programs in gerontology, such as associate, baccalaureate, and master’s. Programs with specific tracks in gerontology or health professions programs that pride themselves on their gerontology/geriatrics content inclusion should consider applying for AGHE Program of Merit status.

  • “Accreditation” refers to granting recognition to an educational institution or academic program that maintains specific standards of quality that are agreed upon in a given field or profession. “Certification” or “credentialing” is granted to individuals who have demonstrated some level of mastery in a field or subject. When a state certifies or credentials individuals, it generally awards them a “license” to practice.

  • The complete accreditation/reaccreditation process, including the self-evaluation report review, site visit review, and Board of Governors decision, is scheduled to take 8 months. This calendar starts on the self-evaluation report due date.

  • The complete accreditation/reaccreditation process, including the self-evaluation report review, site visit review, and Board of Governors decision, is scheduled to take 8 months, starting on the due date of the self-evaluation report. Following the completion of the application and AGEC receiving it, you will be notified in 30 business days whether you receive a “Notice to Proceed” or if revisions are required.