The Council for Accreditation in Family and Consumer Sciences (CFA), an accrediting body of the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences (AAFCS), has been recognized for its excellence in higher education programs since 1971. Given our long-standing history and dedication to ensuring high quality programs, the Council appreciates the federal commitment to enhancing transparency, accountability, innovation, and student-centered outcomes in higher education—a vision that aligns closely with the mission and practices of our specialized accreditation program.
For over a century, AAFCS has been committed to advancing academic excellence through the accreditation of undergraduate programs in family and consumer sciences. The CFA's rigorous, peer-reviewed accreditation process assures the public that programs meet the highest standards in preparing students for professional roles that improve the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities.
As a specialized accrediting organization, the CFA establishes and maintains clear, valid, and profession-specific standards that are consistently assessed by qualified experts. These standards emphasize academic quality, educational effectiveness, and continuous improvement—criteria that mirror the call for innovation and measurable outcomes in the White House Executive Order issued on April 23, 2025. Our accreditation process is intentionally designed to be non-burdensome and responsive to technological advances, while ensuring programs are mission-driven and socially responsible.
Regarding the Executive Order’s emphasis on:
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Innovation in accreditation processes: Our standards are periodically reviewed and redefined based on current research, best practices, and evolving workforce demands, enabling accredited programs to remain relevant and future-focused.
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Institutional improvement: Accredited programs are required to engage in ongoing self-assessment that includes stakeholder participation, strategic planning, and innovation to better serve their students and communities.
The AAFCS CFA remains committed to its role in strengthening postsecondary education and preparing graduates to meet the complex needs of modern society. We look forward to continued collaboration with federal and higher education partners to ensure that accreditation continues to serve as a meaningful driver of academic quality, equity, and excellence.