Accreditation Ratings
- B: Meets quality education standards but lacks specialization.
- A: High standard, meeting foundational criteria.
- AA: Exemplary standard, exceeding expectations in program quality, faculty expertise, and student outcomes.
- AAA: Only available to physical institutions.
Steps to Accreditation
- Submit Application: Complete the CAAI application form and submit the necessary documentation for your counselling programs.
- Pay Application Fee: A non-refundable $75 USD application fee is required to start the review process.
- Evaluation Process:
- Online Providers: Comprehensive review of your program’s curriculum, faculty, and student support services.
- Physical Institutions: Site inspection, with fees based on institutional size.
- Accreditation Decision: Your institution will receive an accreditation rating (A through AAA) upon successful completion of the process.
- Membership Fee: Online institutions pay a $1100 USD membership fee after accreditation. Physical institutions are not required to pay additional fees as of 2025.
Key Aspects for Accreditation Success
- Code of Conduct: Institutions must adhere to ethical practices in education and student relations.
- Mission Statement: A clear mission statement outlining commitment to quality counselling education.
- Qualifications of Educators: Faculty must hold relevant qualifications and have a proven track record.
- Institutional Registration: Proper registration with relevant authorities is required.
- Program Structure: Curriculum must meet CAAI standards, including theoretical and practical knowledge in:
- Counselling Psychology
- Marriage and Family Therapy
- Addiction Counselling
- Religious Counselling
- Trauma and Crisis Counselling
- Mental Health Counselling
- Educational and School Counselling
- Student Support: Adequate support services for students are required, including academic advising and career guidance.
- Ongoing Quality Assurance: Institutions must have a plan for continuous improvement and curriculum updates.