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Abstract

This article reviews the accreditation process for journalism and mass communication programs under the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications. It outlines the history of accreditation, its recognition by national educational agencies, and the benefits it provides for students, faculty, institutions, and the public. The discussion details the twelve criteria used to evaluate programs, including governance, curriculum, faculty, facilities, internships, alumni relations, and diversity. Specific standards such as the curriculum “75–25 rule” and internship limits are explained, along with procedures for self-study, site visits, reporting, and appeals. The article emphasizes the centrality of faculty quality and curriculum design in accreditation decisions and describes the evaluation process from preparation through council review. It concludes that accreditation serves as both a benchmark of academic quality and a protective measure for programs, providing legitimacy, accountability, and recognition in an increasingly competitive educational environment.

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