Short answer
An institution accredited by the International Theological Accreditation Association (ITAA) may only call itself a "university" if doing so complies with the laws, regulatory requirements and naming controls of every jurisdiction in which it operates. ITAA accreditation confirms institutional quality against ITAA standards but does not itself grant statutory university status or degree-awarding powers.
What institutions must check before using the title "university"
Institutions considering the title should:
- Verify national and subnational laws on protected educational titles and degree‑awarding powers.
- Confirm any registration, licence or approval required to use the word "university" in each country, state or province of operation.
- Ensure public statements and marketing do not imply governmental recognition, statutory degree‑awarding authority, or substitution for required licences.
- Maintain accurate information about the scope and limits of ITAA accreditation.
Common scenarios
Typical outcomes include:
- An institution with only ITAA accreditation continues to use designations such as "Bible college", "seminary" or "school" where law prohibits the title "university".
- Where local law permits the title after specific approvals, institutions must obtain those approvals before using "university" in any official name or promotional material.
- Institutions with dual recognition (ITAA plus an authorised governmental approval that grants university status) may use "university" only to the extent allowed by those governmental approvals.
Practical steps for institution leaders
- Seek written guidance from the relevant national regulator or ministry of education about protected titles and degree powers.
- Update institutional governance and public materials only after verifying legal permission.
- Notify ITAA promptly of any change to the institution's name, status or claims.
- Ensure student-facing materials clearly state the nature of ITAA accreditation and any governmental recognitions or limitations.
ITAA policy reminders
ITAA is an independent theological accreditation body and does not grant statutory degree‑awarding powers or governmental recognition. ITAA accreditation never overrides local law; institutions remain solely responsible for compliance with national, state/provincial and local requirements and for truthful public statements.
Frequently asked questions
ITAA accreditation makes an institution a government-recognised university.
ITAA accreditation does not confer governmental recognition or statutory degree‑awarding powers. Institutions must obtain any required governmental approvals separately.
If ITAA accredits you, you may unilaterally change your legal name to include "university".
Name changes that use protected titles require compliance with local law and any necessary approvals before public use.
ITAA’s position
ITAA provides non-governmental accreditation that assesses theological quality, governance and student protections. ITAA does not and cannot grant statutory university status or override local naming and degree‑award laws. Institutions must comply with all applicable legal requirements before adopting the title "university" and must keep public information accurate and transparent. Important Accreditation Information
Important Accreditation Information
ITAA is a private theological accreditation agency.
ITAA is not a governmental accreditation authority.
ITAA accreditation never overrides local law.
Institutions remain solely responsible for compliance with all applicable national, state or provincial, regional, and local laws.
ITAA does not grant statutory degree-awarding powers.
Accreditation status does not replace governmental recognition where required.
Institutional rankings measure the maturity of systems and governance, not the value of a ministry, spiritual calling, ministry effectiveness, or God’s favour.