Is the Naval Postgraduate School Accredited?

Yes, the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) is accredited. NPS is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission. This accreditation is a testament to the rigorous academic standards maintained by the school. Beyond its general accreditation, many of its specific programs are also recognized by specialized professional organizations.

Accreditation Details

NPS is fully accredited and offers graduate education that is comparable to prestigious institutions like Stanford. While many NPS courses and programs are typically accredited to the highest standards, some key points worth noting include:

Engineering Degrees: Specialized engineering degrees provided by NPS are ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) accredited, which is highly unusual for the graduate level. ABET is a vital entity that ensures the quality and optimal performance of engineering and technology programs. Other Accreditations: NPS also holds accreditations from other notable bodies. For instance, its business school is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), signifying its high standard of education and research in business management. Faculty Excellence: NPS boasts a world-class faculty composed primarily of civilian professionals. The institution has over 250 full-time faculty members, with fewer than 20 military instructors. Every class and section is taught by these faculty members, without the use of teaching assistants, ensuring personalized and high-quality education.

Academic Structure and Admission

NPS provides primarily graduate-level education, designed for military officers who are focused on defense-related research and advanced studies. Most students are required to complete a master’s thesis or master of science degree, taking approximately two years to complete. Notably, NPS has a reputation for enabling engineering students to obtain a master’s in engineering even without prior engineering background—something that is rare among universities.

The graduate programs at NPS are competitive. Admission is primarily aimed at military officers pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees. NPS is administratively part of the U.S. Navy, while a similar institution, Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), falls under the Air Force.

Conclusion

The Naval Postgraduate School is recognized for its accreditation by WASC, ABET, AACSB, and other professional organizations. These recognitions underscore the school's dedication to providing top-quality education and research opportunities. NPS’s unique approach to teaching and the caliber of its faculty further solidify its status as a premier institution in both academia and military training.