Therapon University Accreditation

USVI GovernmentIn 2001, the government of the U.S. Virgin Islands approved and authorized Therapon University to issue all types of degrees including, but not limited to, theology, faith-based counseling, and Christian education. Therapon University is recognized as a tax exempt organization under Section 501(c)3 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code.

In the United States, accreditation of universities and seminaries is a voluntary process with accreditation granted by private, non-governmental agencies. Governmental agencies never provide theological or ministry accreditation. Additionally, there is no absolute ‘national’ standard for educational accreditation since the educational world is currently re-examining criteria for accreditation, focusing less on institutional inputs and more on educational outcomes.

There is no such requirement as Federal or State accreditation of a religious institution, because the civil government has no authority to regulate religious teachings or which certificates or religious degrees upon completion of such education may be issued. This is a matter of separation of Church and State. Politicians and civil authorities must never be allowed to officially endorse or disapprove directly or indirectly the beliefs and practices of churches or their schools.

Therapon University’s accreditation is with the American Accrediting Association of Theological Institutions (A.A.A.T.I.) and Theological Accreditation International (T.A.I.). These are religious accreditations, rather than secular and it is voluntary, rather than mandatory. These agencies monitor educational and religious standards for Bible colleges, and their accreditation is accepted by many religious organizations. However, this accreditation is not recognized by either the U.S. Department of Education or the Department of Higher Education in the Republic of South Africa. This non-recognition may have some implications that include, but are not limited to:

  1. Therapon University is not eligible to participate in the Federal Student Loan/Financial Aid program.
  2. Therapon University is not authorized to accept the GI Bill.
  3. Therapon University is unable to guarantee acceptance of its degrees in other postsecondary institutions, except those also accredited by A.A.A.T.I.
  4. Corporations are not required to recognize degrees from Therapon University.
  5. Therapon University is unable to guarantee acceptance of its degrees for employment.

To reach a decision concerning our school, you should determine your ultimate goal in seeking a degree.  Our mission is to train born-again believers to serve the Lord in some phase of ministry.   If you are simply seeking additional education to increase your ministry potential, our school will be an excellent choice.