Accreditation

The Office of Accreditation, Placement and Licensure (APL) serves as the headquarters for data collection and analysis in the preparation of reports to both state and federal accreditation bodies. The data collected by the APL is shared with the Unit, as well as each individual program, for continuous review (and improvement). These reviews ensure that our programs are aligned with professional standards, producing high-quality teachers and other PK-12 professionals. Learn more about APL.

Initial educator preparation programs (EPPs) at The Ohio State University are accredited through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) through 2026. CAEP accreditation indicates our programs successfully prepare new teachers to effectively know their subject area, serve diverse groups of students, have meaningful preservice experiences and use data to drive targeted program improvement. Information regarding our EPPs alignment with CAEP standards can be found in the box of data and reporting links.

Some programs have additional professional accreditation associations due to content area requirements. Learn more about additional accreditations.

 

EPP Philosophy, Purpose, and Goals

The philosophy of The Ohio State University Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs) is based upon a reciprocal relationship between research and practice. Drawing from multiple disciplines and methodologies, EPPs focus on teaching evidence-based pedagogical strategies to best serve diverse PK-12 learners. We believe in being responsive to the changing needs of PK-12 communities through the development of innovative practices and a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. 

Our purpose is to support and enhance the development of education professionals who engage in and implement research-based practices to support and advance PK-12 educational progress. Our programs prepare candidates for initial licensure and engage experienced educators who aspire to advance their practice. Candidates at all levels gain knowledge, skills, and professional dispositions. Our educators are prepared to teach in all settings, empower generations of learners to become leaders, and practice self-evaluation and critical analysis. Our program is committed to recruiting and retaining candidates who bring diversity of experiences in classroom settings.  

The goals of the EPPs are to align curriculum, instruction, and assessments to professional standards; provide meaningful field and clinical experiences; and engage in continuous improvement. Ultimately, meeting these goals will prepare candidates to do the following: 

  • Implement socially just and equitable practices that support the development of all students; 

  • Utilize practices grounded in research and theory; 

  • Conduct data-informed assessment strategies to advance student learning; 

  • Practice ethical, professional behavior;  

  • Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth.