Does accreditation apply to every programme automatically?

Short answer

Institutional accreditation normally recognises an organisation’s overall governance, quality systems and capability to deliver theological education, but it does not automatically mean every individual programme is approved without review. Some programmes are covered as part of an institutional licence when they meet agreed institutional standards; others require separate programme accreditation or an initial programme review before they are listed as approved.

How ITAA applies accreditation to programmes

ITAA operates an institutional-centred framework where an accredited institution is granted an accreditation licence that can cover the institution’s approved programmes. The annual institutional licence is intended to cover all programmes that operate under the institution’s unified governance, curriculum and quality-assurance systems. New, substantially different, or separately governed programmes or campuses may require an additional campus application or a programme-level evaluation.

When individual programme approval is required

• New programmes or substantially changed awards that fall outside the institution’s approved catalogue.
• Programs delivered by a campus with distinct governance, curriculum or certificates issued under a different name.
• Where external programme accreditation is required by a professional, statutory or regulatory body.
• Where national or local law requires programme-level approval for specific awards or licensing.

Practical implications for institutions and students

Institutions must keep public information current about which programmes are covered by their ITAA accreditation and must not imply governmental recognition where none exists. Students should verify whether the specific programme they intend to study is listed as approved by the institution and whether any government or professional recognition is required in their jurisdiction.

Checklist for institutions

1. Confirm whether the programme sits under the institution’s central governance and QA systems.
2. Submit programme details to ITAA where required by the accreditation process.
3. Obtain any government or statutory programme approvals needed in your jurisdiction.
4. Update institutional publications to list approved programmes and campuses accurately.

Related guidance

See ITAA’s Process & Requirements, Fees & Membership and CEQA overview for detailed rules on institutional licences, additional campus fees and programme evaluation procedures.