Professional accreditation

Abstract

Professional accreditation maintains quality and relevance of university programs; ensures acquisition of employability skills; and oversees work-integrated learning (WIL) activities. However, the impost on universities in terms of time, cost, and personnel is considerable with perceptions that demands imposed by accrediting bodies are increasingly difficult to address. This chapter discusses the benefits and challenges of professional accreditation from the perspective of various stakeholders. The role of professional accrediting bodies in developing students’ professional skills, supporting graduates’ transition into the workforce, and facilitating career development is explored. Professional accreditation bodies share similarities, with some diversity across professions. While university staff value professional accreditation for maintaining credibility and quality, they perceive it as a regulatory requirement that presents barriers to innovation. Students report minimal contact with professional bodies during their studies. This chapter proposes a WIL partnership model premised on collaboration and cooperation that optimizes the impact and value of professional accreditation.