Morgridge Programs Receive National and International Accreditations

The University of Denver’s Morgridge College of Education has received two significant accreditations for programs operated by the school.

The Teacher Education Program (TEP) has been accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Educator accreditation is a seal of approval that assures programs prepare new teachers to know their subjects and their students and to have the clinical training that allows them to enter the classroom ready to teach effectively.

“National accreditation denotes a commitment to best practices and continual quality improvement that we at Morgridge feel is important for our teacher candidates as well as the students and families they will serve,” says Karen Riley, dean of the Morgridge College. “The programs that have CAEP accreditation are national leaders in the field, and we are very excited to be a part of this prestigious group.”

Preparing for CAEP accreditation is a three-year process that involves rigorous internal and external assessment and reporting, which culminates with an on-campus site review. To maintain accreditation, the program must undergo a similar review every seven to 10 years.

The TEP offers an intensive and integrated one-year professional preparation experience. Apprentice teachers receive field placement for the entire academic year.

The second accreditation comes from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) for Morgridge’s work with the Ricks Center for Gifted Children. NAEYC is the largest nonprofit association in the United States representing early childhood education. It reflects the highest professional standards for quality young children programs.

“Accredited by both NAEYC and AdvancEd, Ricks supports all of its students in realizing their full potential,” says Anne Sweet, director of the Ricks Center. “NAEYC accreditation ensures top performance in our education of young children, including family support, teacher training, student safety and community engagement.”

Operated by the Morgridge College, Ricks is an extension of the college’s work in the area of gifted education. In addition to providing an educational experience for gifted children from preschool to eighth grade, the school serves as an on-campus training and research facility for graduate students specializing in curriculum, instruction and child psychology.

“The two accreditations are significant accomplishments for the Morgridge College of Education,” Riley says. “They reflect an extraordinary amount of commitment on the part of the faculty and staff. It was a huge team effort and the cross-program support was impressive.”