Accreditation
Accreditation is a process by which Texas Tech University (TTU) and educator preparation programs are regularly reviewed and evaluated. The process includes a self-study based on accreditation standards, independent judgment by peers during an on-site review and judgment by the accreditation body. Such reviews focus on educational quality, institutional integrity and educational improvements.
High quality educator preparation programs at Texas Tech University are attested to by the accreditation review of numerous organizations. Most notable is the overall review of educator programs by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Texas Tech University has maintained continuous NCATE accreditation since 1963 with the latest review occurring fall 2006.
A major focus of the NCATE review, and of all educator preparation programs, is a conceptual framework. A conceptual framework establishes a shared vision for preparing educators to work in P-12 schools, and “provides direction for programs, courses, teaching, candidate performance, scholarship, service, and unit accountability.” The conceptual framework for educator preparation at TTU is captured by the theme, “Professional Educators Opening Doors to the Future.” The conceptual framework may be viewed online.
An institutional report has been developed as part of the NCATE review process. Additional information about NCATE as an accrediting body and the 2006 TTU Institutional Report are available.
The NCATE review incorporates program specific standards as established by various Specialized Professional Associations (SPA’s) such as the International Reading Association and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. These standards are available for review.
Additionally, some education programs, such as art, music and counselor education undergo national accreditation reviews outside of NCATE. Those standards are also available for review.
State level accreditation for all TTU educator certification programs is administered through the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC). Additional information concerning state accreditation is found at http://www.sbec.state.tx.us/SBECOnline/standtest/edstancertfieldlevl.asp.
Finally, Texas Tech University is itself accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). SACS Standards are located at http://www.sacscoc.org/principles.asp and the latest SACS review of TTU may be found at http://www.irim.ttu.edu/sacs/SACSPreamble.htm#more2.