To clarify the latest updates on USDE waivers resulting from COVID-19, institutions seeking to offer distance education programs must take note of recent changes in accreditation requirements.
Revised Submission Deadlines
Institutions planning to incorporate distance education components into their programs must submit a substantive change request by the upcoming deadline. This request is essential for institutions whose accreditation scope does not currently cover distance education.
Recent Regulatory Changes
The United States Department of Education (USDE) has implemented new regulations governing distance education, effective from July 1, 2021. Institutions wishing to offer distance education outside the scope of previous waivers must obtain approval through the substantive change process.
Elimination of Previous Thresholds
The accreditor's approval threshold for distance education has been updated. Previously, institutions offering less than 50% of their programs online were exempt from certain accreditors' scrutiny. However, this exemption no longer applies under the revised guidelines.
Technical Modifications to Guidelines
The Commission has made technical modifications to substantive change guidelines in response to regulatory adjustments. These changes, effective from November 1, 2021, eliminate the previous 50% threshold requirement for accreditor approval of distance education programs.
Submission Process
Institutions affected by these updates should submit their revised substantive change request using the updated form available on the Commission's website. The deadline for submission is January 2024.
Integration into Accreditation Scope
Moving forward, institutions must integrate distance education as an alternative delivery method within their accreditation scope. This integration will be evaluated in all future accreditation assessments.
Compliance with Substantive Change Policy
Institutions are required to comply with the Substantive Change Policy and Procedures for any future alterations to program delivery methods. Prior approval from the Commission may be necessary for such changes.
Contact Information
For inquiries regarding these requirements or if your institution does not currently offer distance learning within its accreditation scope, please contact info@imoea.org via email.
