Policy A.2.l. Substantive Change in an Accredited Degree Program

Policy A.2.l Substantive Change. Significant changes affecting the nature, substance, or delivery of a counseling degree program must be reported and reviewed. The decision as to whether a change is substantive is a judgment specific to an individual program, since the change must be considered in the context of the whole program and institution. In cases where programs are unsure whether a planned change would be substantive, CACREP staff members are authorized to determine whether a Substantive Change Report is required. Only after a reported Substantive Change is approved by the CACREP Board of Directors may a program consider such a change (a) to be included in its current accreditation and (b) not to have affected the validity of its accreditation.

Revised policy – Effective July 1, 2026

Policy A.2.l Substantive Change in an Accredited Degree Program. Significant changes affecting the nature, substance, or delivery of a counseling degree program must be reported to and reviewed by CACREP. Anticipated changes must be reported for review prior to implementation of the change. Unanticipated changes must be reported as soon as possible.

The decision as to whether a change is substantive is a judgment specific to an individual program, since the change must be considered in the context of the whole program and institution. In cases where programs are unsure whether a planned change would be substantive, CACREP staff members are authorized to determine whether a Substantive Change Report is required.

Only after a reported Substantive Change is approved by the CACREP Board of Directors may a program consider such a change (a) to be included in its current accreditation and (b) not to have affected the validity of its accreditation.

This individual policy is part of The CACREP 2024 Accreditation Policy Document.