We are delighted to announce that the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), a nationally recognized accrediting agency listed by the U.S. Department of Education and recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), has officially extended accreditation to the Wilmette Institute. The scope of Wilmette Institute’s accreditation extends to our graduate-level Social Transformation Certificate.
This milestone affirms that a tuition-free, values-driven program dedicated to social transformation meets established national standards for quality distance education—including sound governance, clearly defined learning outcomes, qualified faculty, comprehensive student support, transparent admissions practices, and ongoing institutional improvement.
Inspired by the Bahá’í teachings, the program seeks not only to foster intellectual growth but to cultivate the capacity in our students and faculty to contribute to the prevalent public discourses related to issues of social import. Accreditation strengthens the Institute’s ability to serve a growing community of learners committed to that purpose.
DEAC accreditation follows a rigorous multi-year process of self-study, documentation, and on-site evaluation. In September 2025, a visiting team conducted a comprehensive review of the Institute’s academic programs, leadership, student services, assessment practices, and operational systems. The accreditation decision affirms the integrity and coherence of this work.
Achieving accreditation reflects the dedication of our faculty, students, alumni, staff, and supporters, as well as the guidance and steadfast support of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States.
Accreditation affirms external recognition of our program’s academic quality and reinforces the Institute’s long-term capacity to offer accessible, high-quality online learning directly to the public and in partner universities. We look ahead with renewed commitment to building learning spaces grounded in reflection, action, and collective progress.
