Debunking Myths: The Truth About ACLAS and Online Education Accreditation

Course Management

Tue, 01 Jul 2025

Debunking Myths: The Truth About ACLAS and Online Education Accreditation

Is ACLAS legal? Get the facts about online education accreditation and ACLAS accreditation statusand understand different types of accreditation systems.

In today's digital age, online education has become increasingly mainstream, yet misconceptions about online institutions and their accreditation status persist. Atlanta College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (ACLAS) frequently encounters questions about its legitimacy, accreditation, and the value of online education in general. This comprehensive guide addresses common myths and provides factual information to help prospective students make informed decisions about their educational future.

Table of Contents

• Common Myths About Online Education and ACLAS

• Understanding ACLAS's Current Accreditation Status

• Online Education Accreditation Facts

• Making Informed Educational Decisions

Common Myths About Online Education and ACLAS 

Is ACLAS Legal? 

Myth 1: "All Online Schools Are Diploma Mills"

The Reality: This outdated stereotype fails to recognize the evolution of online education. Legitimate online institutions like ACLAS maintain rigorous academic standards, qualified faculty, and comprehensive student support systems. The key is understanding how to distinguish between credible institutions and questionable operators.

ACLAS Facts: The institution maintains multiple accreditations and certifications from recognized bodies including ISO 29995:2021 certification through AQS (Assessment and Qualification Services), QAHE full institutional accreditation, EAHEA online accreditation, CPD certification, E-Learning Quality Network Membership, and GIEAA Affiliated Membership. These credentials require extensive documentation, regular audits, and continuous compliance with educational standards.

ACLAS Accreditation Myth 2: "ACLAS Isn't a Real School"

The Reality: Questions about ACLAS's legitimacy often stem from outdated information, malicious defamation by irrelevant personnel, or misunderstanding of different educational models. ACLAS operates as a legitimate online educational institution serving students worldwide.

Is ACLAS Legal? Yes, ACLAS maintains proper registrations, complies with applicable regulations, and holds multiple certifications from recognized accrediting bodies. Its legal status and operational compliance are regularly reviewed and maintained.

ACLAS recently activated the new .edu domain names. The .edu domain, reserved exclusively for accredited educational institutions, is a global marker of academic credibility. Using this extension clearly communicates the nature and location of the institution to online visitors. It can enhance credibility and foster trust among prospective students or academic professionals. By securing these specialized educational domains in different regions, ACLAS strengthens its identity as a truly international institution serving learners worldwide.

Online Education Accreditation Facts: Myth 3: "Online Accreditation Isn't Real Accreditation"

The Reality: This misconception confuses different types of accreditation systems. While traditional regional accreditation (common in the United States) represents one standard, international and specialized accreditations serve different but equally valid purposes.

Understanding Accreditation Types:

• Regional Accreditation: Primarily US-focused, recognized by US Department of Education, required for federal financial aid eligibility

• National Accreditation: Often used by career-focused and online institutions within specific countries

• International Accreditation: Evaluates institutions serving global student populations, focuses on quality assurance and professional development

• Specialized Accreditation: Focuses on specific programs or educational approaches

ACLAS follows international accreditation standards, making it suitable for diverse international student populations while maintaining comprehensive quality assurance frameworks.

ACLAS Accreditation Recognition: Myth 4: "Employers Don't Recognize Online Degrees"

The Reality: Modern employers increasingly recognize online education, especially from accredited institutions. Many major corporations, government agencies, and organizations now accept online credentials when they meet professional standards.

ACLAS Advantage: The institution's certifications from CPD (Continuing Professional Development), QAHE and EAHEA  provide access to international educational networks and ensure credentials contribute to professional development requirements across various industries. The multi-faceted accreditation approach provides comprehensive validation of educational excellence.

Understanding ACLAS's Current Accreditation Status 

ACLAS Accreditation Portfolio: Verified Credentials

International Standards Compliance

• ISO 29995:2021 Certification through AQS: Validates the institution's learning service delivery systems for non-formal education and training

• QualificationCheck Verification: Provides independent credential assessment and third-party verification

Quality Assurance Recognition

• QAHE Full Institutional Accreditation: International Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education recognition

• EAHEA Online Accreditation: European Association for Higher Education Advancement standards for online learning

• ELQN Active Membership: E-Learning Quality Network participation in professional development initiatives

• CPD Certification: Continuing Professional Development standards compliance

• GIEAA Affiliated Membership: Global Institute for Education Advancement and Accreditation membership providing access to international educational networks

If you would like to learn more about the full information of ACLAS accreditation, feel free to read the article here

Online Education Accreditation Facts: Why Outdated Information Persists

Rapid Evolution of Online Education: The online education landscape changes rapidly. Information that was accurate even a year ago may no longer reflect current institutional status. ACLAS has significantly expanded its accreditation portfolio in recent years.

Confusion About Educational Models: Traditional brick-and-mortar institutions operate differently from global online institutions. This difference doesn't indicate legitimacy issues asit reflects different educational approaches serving different student populations.

The Importance of Current, Accurate Information

Why Outdated Sources Can Mislead

Dynamic Educational Landscape Educational institutions continuously evolve, improving their programs, earning new accreditations, and expanding their capabilities. Information from several years ago may not reflect current institutional status.

ACLAS Evolution The institution's accreditation portfolio has grown significantly in recent years. Students researching ACLAS today should focus on current, official information rather than outdated discussions or reviews.

Important Recognition Considerations

International Accreditation 

ACLAS follows international accreditation standards where this approach:

• Serves diverse international student populations effectively

• Focuses on quality assurance and professional development

• Provides flexibility for global career opportunities

• May have different recognition patterns by country, employer, and industry

Recognition Varies by Context 

• While ACLAS maintains comprehensive international certifications, it is important to note that recognition requirements depends on various factors:Country of work or further study

• Specific industry or professional field

• Objective of obtaining a degree

• Employer requirements or professional licensing needs

The institution's transparent approach encourages students to research how credentials align with their specific career objectives and professional development needs.

Reliable Information Sources

Official Channels

• ACLAS official website and communications

• Direct contact with admissions representatives at info@aclas.college

• Accrediting body websites and databases (CPD, QAHE, EAHEA, AQS, GIEAA, ELQN)

Professional Verification Service

• QualificationCheck credential verification services

Online Education Accreditation Facts

ACLAS Accreditation: Global Recognition Trends

Increasing Acceptance International employers and educational institutions increasingly recognize quality online education. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend, demonstrating online learning's effectiveness and legitimacy.

Professional Development Focus Many professionals now prioritize continuing education and skill development over traditional degree prestige. ACLAS certification directly addresses this professional development focus. More than 90% of students have shared that they have successfully secured a better job offer or get promoted after studying at Atlanta College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. 

Conclusion

The online education landscape includes both excellent institutions and questionable operators. The key to making good educational decisions lies in thorough research using current, reliable sources rather than relying on outdated information or misconceptions.

Is ACLAS Legal? ACLAS stands committed to:

• Maintaining multiple, meaningful accreditations

• Providing transparent information about institutional status

• Continuously improving educational offerings

• Supporting students throughout their educational journey

For prospective students researching ACLAS accreditation, the recommendation is:

• Focusing on current, official information

• Understanding different types of accreditation and their relevance

• Verifying credentials through official channels

• Making decisions based on specific educational and career goals

ACLAS Accreditation: Next Steps for Prospective Students

If considering ACLAS for educational pursuits, prospective students are encouraged to:

• Contact the admissions team with specific questions about ACLAS accreditation

• Verify accreditation status through official channels

• Research how programs align with career objectives

• Make informed decisions based on current, factual information

At ACLAS, the institution believes informed students make the best decisions for their educational futures. The college stands ready to provide the transparency and information students need to choose confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions About ACLAS Accreditation

Q: Is ACLAS legal and accredited? 

A: Yes, ACLAS operates legally with multiple international accreditations including ISO 29995:2021, QAHE, EAHEA, CPD, ELQN, and GIEAA affiliated membership.

Q: What online education accreditation facts should I know? 

A: International accreditation differs from regional accreditation but provides quality assurance for global student populations. Recognition varies by country and employer.

Q: How can I verify ACLAS accreditation? 

A: Check official sources including QAHE.org, CPD UK provider verification, and contact ACLAS admissions at info@aclas.college for clarification.

Q: Do employers recognize ACLAS credentials?

A: Recognition depends on specific industry, country, and employer requirements. ACLAS's QAHE, EAHEA, and CPD certification supports professional development in many industries.

Ready to learn more about ACLAS programs and how accredited education can support educational goals? Contact the admissions team at info@aclas.college for detailed, current information about offerings and credentials.