In the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), credentials matter. Whether you’re planning to become a civil engineer, cybersecurity analyst, software developer, or mechanical systems expert, the quality of your education can shape your opportunities and outcomes. That’s where ABET Certification comes in.

ABET, short for the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, is the premier accreditor for college and university programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology. Its stamp of approval serves as a powerful indicator that a program meets established standards of quality and rigor.

With more than 4,600 programs accredited at over 850 institutions in 41 countries, ABET’s reach and influence are both global and respected. It ensures that students graduate with the skills necessary to enter technical professions that are constantly evolving due to innovation and industry demand.

What is ABET Certification?

First, let’s clarify a common point of confusion: ABET certification refers to accreditation of academic programs, not individuals.

So, what is ABET Certification? It’s an assurance that a specific academic program—such as engineering, computer science, or information systems—meets the quality standards developed by professionals in those fields. These standards address everything from student outcomes and faculty qualifications to curriculum structure and lab facilities.

Core Attributes of ABET Accreditation:

• Program-Specific: Only individual programs (not institutions) are accredited.
• Outcome-Based: Programs must demonstrate that students achieve defined learning outcomes.
• Continuous Improvement: Schools must regularly evaluate and enhance their programs.
• Peer-Reviewed: Industry and academic professionals conduct on-site evaluations.

ABET is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), and it operates through four commissions:

• Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission (ANSAC)
• Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC)
• Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC)
• Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission (ETAC)

These bodies oversee program standards within their domains. You can explore full criteria at the official ABET website

What Can I Do With ABET Certificate?

While ABET does not issue certificates to individuals, completing a degree from an ABET-accredited program provides many tangible benefits.

Why Choose an ABET-Accredited Program?

1. Professional Licensure
   1. In the United States, graduating from an ABET-accredited program is typically required to sit for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, which is the first step toward becoming a Professional Engineer (PE).
   2. This is essential for careers in fields like civil, mechanical, structural, or electrical engineering.
   3. Source: National Society of Professional Engineers – Licensure
2. Certifications and Employer Preference
   1. Many employers, particularly in aerospace, automotive, defense, manufacturing, and technology, look for graduates from ABET-accredited programs.
   2. This is especially true for regulated industries or companies that deal with public infrastructure or safety.
3. Graduate School Opportunities
   1. Some master’s or PhD programs prefer (or require) applicants to have earned a degree from an ABET-accredited undergraduate program.

What Careers Value ABET-Accredited Degrees?

While specific job requirements vary by employer, some common career paths that benefit from ABET-aligned education include:

• Civil Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Software Developer
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Electrical Engineer
• Systems Engineer
• Data Analyst
• Robotics Technician
• Network Engineer
• Quality Assurance Specialist

These roles often require a deep understanding of technical theory, problem-solving, and systems thinking, core skills emphasized in ABET-accredited curricula.

Is ABET Accreditation Important?

ABET accreditation signals to students, employers, and regulatory bodies that a program meets established global standards for academic and professional readiness. But beyond simply meeting a checklist, ABET accreditation speaks to educational excellence and ongoing relevance in rapidly changing industries.

Key Reasons ABET Accreditation Matters:

• Assurance of Quality
  Accreditation means that the program’s content, faculty, resources, and outcomes are thoroughly vetted by experts in the field.
• Licensure Requirement
  If your career path involves becoming a licensed engineer in the U.S., an ABET-accredited degree is almost always required.
• Employer Trust
  Many technical employers prefer ABET-accredited graduates because they know those programs meet a standard of rigor and relevance.
• Global Mobility
  Through mutual recognition agreements like the Washington Accord, ABET degrees carry weight internationally, allowing for smoother transitions into careers abroad.

What is an ABET-Accredited University?

It’s important to note that ABET does not accredit universities as a whole, but rather individual degree programs within them.

This distinction matters. A university may offer dozens of technical degrees, but only a select number may be ABET-accredited. If ABET accreditation is important for your goals, you’ll need to verify the status of the specific program you're interested in.

How Does a University Earn ABET Accreditation?

Here’s a simplified version of the process:

1. Self-Study Report
   The university conducts an internal review of the program—documenting curriculum, student outcomes, facilities, and faculty credentials.
2. On-Site Visit
   A team of peer reviewers, made up of professionals in the field, visits the campus to validate the self-study and interact with students and instructors.
3. Evaluation & Decision
   ABET commissions review the findings and issue an accreditation decision. Accreditation is typically valid for six years, after which the program must undergo reevaluation.
4. Ongoing Compliance
   Accredited programs must demonstrate continuous improvement by assessing learning outcomes and updating course content based on industry trends.

You can check a program’s accreditation status through the official ABET program search tool here

How to Choose the Right ABET-Accredited Program

When evaluating potential degree programs, here are a few steps you can take:

• Search the Official ABET Database: Use the ABET search tool to confirm whether a specific program is accredited.
• Ask Admissions Advisors Directly: Always verify if the exact program and concentration are accredited—not just the general department.
• Look for Recent Accreditation: Programs must be reevaluated regularly. Make sure the accreditation is current.
• Review Program Outcomes: Most ABET-accredited programs publish their learning outcomes and assessment processes online.

Choosing a program without accreditation can limit your options for licensure and advancement, so due diligence upfront is essential.

Conclusion

ABET accreditation is more than a badge of honor, it’s a powerful benchmark of quality in technical education. For students in engineering, computing, and applied sciences, it can be the key to unlocking opportunities in licensure, global employment, and advanced study.

Whether you're aiming to work on infrastructure projects, develop software systems, or secure networks against cyber threats, the foundation of your career begins with your education. And ABET Certification ensures that education is recognized, rigorous, and relevant.

Before you choose a program, take the time to confirm whether it holds ABET accreditation. Learn more about ECPI University ABET-accredited programs here.