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Change to Rules for Accreditation Find out more
Accreditation  News

Act now to meet new accreditation rule

2 minutes read • 28 February 2023
Accreditation  News
Act now to meet new accreditation rule

APAC is reminding all higher education providers of a change to the Rules for Accreditation that requires all new programs to gain accreditation before they begin.

On 27 June 2022, the Board amended Rule 2.3 to read: “From 1 January 2024, any new program must gain accreditation prior to commencement of the program.

“For programs delivering Professional Competencies (Level 3 and above), for which the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) requires students to hold provisional registration as a psychologist, the program must also gain approval from the PsyBA prior to commencement.

“Otherwise, the students who graduate from that program will be deemed to have graduated from a program that is not accredited.”

The change was reported to stakeholders in July and August last year.

APAC Assistant Accreditation Manager, Stephanie Korilis, said: “We advise providers to reach out to us now, if they haven’t already done so, if they are looking to seek accreditation for new programs.

“Although the APAC team will always make best efforts, an assessment for a new program may take up to 12 months to complete.

“So we encourage you to think, do you have time to complete the process before enrolling students for semester one, 2024?

“If in doubt, talk to the team at APAC – we’re here to help.”

Providers are also reminded that if a new program is Level 3 or above, it also needs PsyBA approval.

Without accreditation and approval, students will be deemed to have graduated from a program that is not accredited.

Stephanie added: “So our advice to providers is simple – apply early to ensure students are not disadvantaged. If you are considering developing a new program, reach out to the office if you have any questions or would like to discuss the timelines.”

The change in rules also applies to programs with new psychology sequences, existing programs at a new campus, and additional program titles.

Read the updated Rules here.

Contact the Accreditation team.

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