Launching a Program

Class in session in a correctional facility with a bag from SDSU in the foreground on a table

How does an institution launch a program?

Higher Education in Prison (HEP) programs must meet the same standards as degree programs offered on campus. Accreditation approval authorizes a university to offer its degree inside a correctional facility. This approval makes the degree academically valid and ensures it meets the same quality standards as programs delivered on campus. Prison Education Program (PEP) approval authorizes the program to participate in federal financial aid. This designation allows incarcerated students to access Pell Grants and ensures compliance with federal regulations.

Accreditation and Approval

Overhead photo of students studying at a table covered with textbooks

For a college or university to launch a degree-granting program at an alternative site, they must seek approval from the appropriate accreditation body, as well as the correctional institution. To gain approval from the correctional institution, each college or university will connect with either their state or local correctional leadership to seek approval. This is done prior to applying to be a Prison Education Program (PEP) at the federal level.

In California and the Western United States, the regional accrediting body responsible for evaluating and approving degree-granting institutions is the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Institutions located outside of California and the western United States should consult their regional accrediting body (for example, Middle States, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission, New England Commission of Higher Education, or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities) for site approval requirements. Review by WASC or other accreditation bodies is related to, but distinct from, the overall University accreditation at the university or college level.

Regional accreditation confirms that an institution meets established standards for:

  • Academic quality
  • Institutional governance
  • Faculty qualifications
  • Student learning outcomes
  • Financial stability
  • Continuous improvement

How to seek federal approval for a PEP program

In order for incarcerated students to be eligible for Pell funding, colleges or universities must also seek to be part of the federal Prison Education Program (PEP). This application is made to the Department of Education.

During the review process, the institution demonstrates academic quality, governance, assessment practices, and, notably for PEP, that it is operating in the best interest of students. The process includes external peer review and commission approval. Once granted, accreditation must be maintained through ongoing reporting, regular assessment of student learning outcomes, and periodic reaffirmation reviews.

Without accreditation approval:

  • The institution cannot grant a recognized degree at that location
  • The prison site is not an authorized extension of the university
  • The degree would not carry the same standing as a campus degree

Regional accreditation makes the degree academically legitimate. It ensures that students enrolled inside earn the same accredited credential as students enrolled on campus.

PEP Reference:

U.S. Department of Education, Q & A for PEP Programs

Approved PEP Programs, as of 2026

 

Continue learning with:

U.S. Federal Prison Education Program (PEP)