What are the benefits of having my institution's co-operative education programs accredited by CAFCE?
Institutions should consider accreditation for a number of reasons:
- Advertising accredited status to students, faculty and employers provides you with the opportunity to enhance your program’s profile and credibility, particularly within professional communities where the concept of accreditation is a recognized standard
- Accreditation criteria may be used as the vehicle to support policies and procedures established for your operation and as a reference point when dealing with student and employer issues
- Undergoing a national review process every six years, completed by a three-member team (from different locations across Canada where possible),attests to the quality of your co-operative education programs
- Accreditation criteria and status can be beneficial in discussions with senior administration, to support program structure and provide a benchmark for the development of new programs
- Completed accreditation application documentation can help to orient new staff in their training
- Accreditation guidelines may provide evidence of standards aligning with requirements for special funding or tax credit opportunities established by different levels of government
- Membership within the Accreditation Council provides a forum to engage with colleagues in discussions about best practices, emerging trends and standards and rationales