: Regionally accredited credits are more likely to transfer to other major universities.

There are two main types of accreditation to consider: institutional and programmatic. Institutional accreditation covers the entire university and is often categorized as either regional or national. Traditionally, regional accreditation is considered the gold standard; it is held by major state and private non-profit universities, such as the University of Florida or Penn State World Campus , making credits more easily transferable. Programmatic accreditation, on the other hand, focuses on specific departments—such as nursing, engineering, or business—ensuring that the curriculum meets industry-specific professional standards.

Choosing an accredited online college also opens doors to critical financial and professional resources. Only students attending accredited institutions are eligible for federal financial aid via the FAFSA . Furthermore, many professional licenses and certifications require a degree from an accredited program.