ACCREDITATION
 1. Why do some Bible-based schools choose not to be accredited by the DOE

Bible-based schools may opt out of this system for reasons like:

• Doctrinal Autonomy: Some religious schools fear that recognized accreditation may require curriculum changes that conflict with their faith-based teachings (e.g., evolution vs. creation, gender and sexuality issues, etc.).

• Separation from Federal Oversight: Accredited schools become eligible for federal financial aid, but that also means accepting federal regulations—something some religious schools may choose to avoid.

• Mission-Driven Focus: They may feel their mission is ministry preparation, not secular academic recognition, so they pursue accreditation through faith-based or theological agencies instead.

✅ 2. Does this mean they are less qualified to educate?

Not necessarily.

What truly matters:

• The quality of the faculty (e.g., instructors with master's and doctoral degrees).

• The rigor and relevance of the curriculum.

• Outcomes: Are graduates succeeding in ministry, academics, the military, or professional life?  See Page #1 Video

If a seminary has:

• Professors with strong academic credentials, See About Us

• Graduates placed in respected positions (e.g., military chaplaincy, academic roles),

• Recognition by churches, ministries, or professional organizations, Official Seminary for The Acts Christian Network and many Thriving Local Churches

...then it can be just as (or more) effective than a DoE-accredited institution, depending on your goals.

💼 3. If major corporations and high-ranking military officers accept these degrees, doesn’t that prove their value?

Yes, in many contexts it does. This is a fact for both statements. For instance: Major Corporation - RoyoMartin   Military Lt. Colonel Steven Smith US Military Chaplain

For example

• The U.S. military chaplaincy accepts graduates from certain religious schools not accredited by DoE-recognized bodies, provided other criteria are met.

• Employers often care more about skills, experience, and character than a specific accreditor, especially in ministry, counseling, or nonprofit roles.

• Many denominations and church networks ordain ministers from non-DoE schools.

So, practical acceptance of degrees depends on where you want to serve, not just where the school is accredited.

💰 4. Does a lower tuition cost mean lower quality?

Absolutely not.

Lower tuition might be due to:

• Lower overhead (no expensive campuses or sports programs).

• Mission-focused pricing (to make education more accessible for ministers).

• Lack of participation in federal student aid (which can drive up prices elsewhere).

Some of the best education happens in settings where the instructors are highly dedicated, and the school is mission-driven, not profit-driven.

📜 5. Should someone take advantage of such a school if it offers a high-quality, affordable education—even without DoE-recognized accreditation?

Yes—if it aligns with your goals.

Ask yourself:

• Do I need DoE-accredited degrees for state licensure or federal employment?

• Will my church, denomination, or ministry network accept this degree?

• Does the program give me the training, mentorship, and credibility I need?

If those boxes are checked, then there's no reason to avoid the school just because it’s not part of the DoE system.

🏛️ BONUS: What is the "largest and oldest DoE accrediting organization" you mentioned?

You might be referring to one of the following:

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Accrediting Commission International ACE)

 

Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) – A DoE-recognized accreditor of Bible colleges and seminaries.

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​Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) – Also recognized by the DoE.

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Some schools may also be accredited by large non-DoE-recognized religious agencies, like the Association of Reformed Theological Seminaries (ARTS) or ICAA.

If a school is accredited by a well-established theological accreditor—even if not DoE-recognized—it can still hold strong value within Christian and ministry circles.

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✅/ Final Thoughts

A seminary or Bible college's accreditation status is not the sole measure of its educational legitimacy. Especially in faith-based education, mission fit, academic rigor, faculty quality, and ministry outcomes often matter more than government recognition.

If you're looking for quality theological training that’s accessible, affordable, and accepted in your sphere of service, there is no shame in choosing a non-DoE-accredited school that still maintains high academic and spiritual standards.`