ACCREDITATION

The National Association of Private Theological Institutions was initially established in 1999 for the purpose of endorsing private Christian institutions and to certify the educational institution by evaluating the institution's educational programs, philosophies and verifying the "credibility" of such institution. This type of "accreditation" is based upon peer evaluation, whereby a group of educational colleagues in the same field of endeavor, who provide such evaluation under the auspices of an independent commission, organization or association grant the institution approval and recognition of their educational programs and professionalism.

Accreditation is a totally voluntary option. The United States in no way, shape or form regulates post-secondary education. Each state assumes varying degrees of control over education, but, in general, institutions of higher education are permitted to operate with considerable independence. Accreditation, certification and endorsement of private institutions is provided by national or regional associations who have established criteria, which reflect solid educational programs.

The accreditation of private, religious schools of higher learning, established for the purpose of educating and training men and women for professional ministry has been a question of debate over the past several years. However, accreditation of such institutions should be entrusted to a professional organization/association whose primary concern is the establishment of schools that reflect the very principles of the Church, which has always been autonomous and separate from state.

The National Association of Private Theological Institutions (NAPTI) is provided as a mechanism of accreditation, certification, and endorsement for those private Christian Colleges, Universities and Seminaries who desire the recognition and approval of their professional peers. Each educational institution is reviewed by a committee of professional Christian Educators who are involved in the administrative functions of private, independent Christian schools that grant degrees of a religious nature. Our Certification Committee is comprised of educators who have been instrumental in establishing Bible Colleges, Christian Universities and Theological Seminaries.

We invite all private Christian educational institutions to unite with us as we mutually provide certification, endorsement and accountability to our students and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Together we can establish quality educational institutions that are professional, credible and edifying to the whole of the body of Christ. Additionally, we endeavor that all of our member institutions honor the Lord in all they do, and do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in excellence.