Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) is an accreditation organization that evaluates and approves educational institutions, from K-12 schools to colleges and universities, primarily in the Western United States and other regions. Accreditation by WASC ensures that these institutions meet certain standards of quality and effectiveness in education. This process involves comprehensive evaluation, including self-assessments, peer reviews, and site visits, helping institutions improve and ensuring that students receive a valid and valuable education. WASC accreditation is important for institutions as it affects their credibility, funding, and students' ability to transfer credits or secure financial aid.