Effective use of accreditation as it continues to evolve is important to maintain educational quality. How accreditation developed its characteristics, use of standards, and conception of quality are discussed. (Author/MLW)

Traces changes in the federal role in and priorities for higher education and poses questions concerning the relationship between the federal government and the accrediting community. Highlights reports evidencing state concern for quality and differences among the states with regard to program review and accreditation. (DMM)

Three articles on accreditation by Richard M. Millard, Robert A. Scott, and David E. Sumler cover ensuring the quality of programs and institutions, the accreditation process and what accreditation is needed by higher education institutions, and the cooperation between the Maryland state agency and a regional accreditation body. (MLW)