Concise answer
Yes. The International Theological Accreditation Association (ITAA) may grant institutional accreditation to providers that operate without a conventional single-campus footprint (for example entirely online, multi-site centres, or distributed learning models) where the institution demonstrably meets ITAA standards for governance, quality assurance, academic oversight, assessment, learner support and record-keeping.
What ITAA checks for institutions without a physical campus
When evaluating a campus-less or primarily online institution, ITAA evaluates whether the institution has:
- Clear, unified governance and an accountable leadership structure.
- Centralised quality assurance, assessment and academic oversight.
- Robust student support, admissions transparency and reliable records.
- Secure and verifiable awarding and certification procedures.
- Policies for academic integrity, appeals and complaints.
- Evidence of lawful operation and any required local registrations or licences.
Legal and regulatory responsibilities
Accreditation by ITAA is non-governmental recognition of institutional quality and DOES NOT replace or override any national, state or local laws. Institutions remain solely responsible for complying with all applicable laws, licences, registrations and for holding any statutory degree-awarding powers required by their jurisdiction.
ITAA does not grant governmental recognition or statutory degree-awarding powers.
Practical notes for online or distributed providers
- Provide a centralised QA manual, academic board minutes and documented moderation practices.
- Show how student identity, assessment security and academic standards are protected online.
- Supply evidence of legal authority to operate and to issue certificates in all jurisdictions where students are enrolled.
- Notify ITAA promptly of significant changes (delivery model, governance, legal status).
How to apply
Follow ITAA's standard application and evidence requirements. Applications must include governance documents, QA policies, programme specifications, student-facing policies and evidence of lawful operation in relevant jurisdictions.
Frequently asked questions
ITAA accreditation equals governmental recognition.
ITAA provides independent theological accreditation and does not confer statutory recognition or degree-awarding powers; institutions must comply with local law for those matters.
An online provider needs no quality assurance documentation.
Online and distributed providers must still demonstrate the same QA, assessment and student support systems as campus-based institutions.
ITAA’s Role
ITAA provides independent theological accreditation that assesses the maturity of an institution’s governance, academic standards and student protections. ITAA accreditation is intended to increase transparency and protect students, not to replace legal or governmental requirements. Institutions remain responsible for complying with all applicable laws and for accurately representing accreditation status.