Is Capella University Accredited?

A college degree is a big investment, and going to an accredited school is one way to make sure you’re getting a quality education.

Capella University is a private, for-profit university that offers a number of online programs. Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which bases its accreditation on factors like school conduct and student resources.

It’s important to go to an accredited university, but that shouldn’t be the only factor you consider when picking a school. Read on to learn more about the accreditation process as it pertains to Capella.

Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which accredits higher education institutions across the country and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

The HLC bases its accreditation on a number of factors, including a school’s mission, integrity and ethical conduct, student resources and support, and institutional effectiveness.

Capella received a reaffirmation of accreditation in 2022-2023 and is set to receive another in 2032-2033.

A number of Capella University’s programs are also individually accredited by professional organizations, like the Council on Social Work Education and Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Originally established as The Graduate School of America, Capella University changed its name in 1999, according to the HLC. The school is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and earned regional accreditation in 1997.

Capella University is a largely online university with dozens of degree programs, including a number of master’s and doctoral programs.

Capella University emphasizes flexibility for working professionals in its curriculum. The school also offers an accelerated bachelor’s to master’s pathway for some programs, allowing students to take classes that count toward their master’s degree while earning their bachelor’s.

Capella University is a private, for-profit institution. For-profit colleges are privately owned and operated and funded mostly via tuition.

There’s a common misconception that all for-profit schools like Capella University are diploma mills. Many people think a degree from Capella holds no value to employers. But as long as the school is accredited, the degree will have value in an employer’s eyes.

Accreditation means a school has met all the rigorous standards to provide a quality education. Capella’s mission is to drive professional growth within its students through exceptional learning outcomes.