Abstract
This article critiques specialized accreditation in mass communication, contending that external certification is unnecessary and potentially harmful for communication studies. Through historical review and organizational analysis, it demonstrates that the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communication evolved from journalism interests, features membership heavily weighted toward professional associations, and applies standards focused on workforce preparation rather than scholarly breadth. The discussion outlines how costs, narrow curricular prescriptions, and professional dominance can intrude on faculty autonomy, distort liberal education requirements, and privilege print journalism over broadcasting, media research, and other communication domains. Instead, this article advocates internal program assessment, shared governance, and demonstrable graduate competence as more valid indicators of quality assurance. It concludes that accreditation may suit career oriented journalism units, yet it offers limited value and possible risks for broader communication programs.
Recommended Citation
Davis, Robert E.
(1991)
"Accreditation in Mass Communication: A Negative View,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 75, Article 9.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol75/iss1/9
