Accreditation
Accreditation Status
Cornerstone College & Seminary is accredited through AICCS. CCS remains in communication status for accreditation through TRACS.
At Cornerstone College & Seminary, we are passionate about continuous improvement. We desire to uphold accreditation standards because the process holds us accountable for continuous improvement to provide our students with a quality educational experience. The accreditation process helps us become the best version of our unique academic higher education programs possible.
Cornerstone College & Seminary is honored to be accredited by the Association of Independent Christian Colleges and Seminaries (AICCS). This recognition affirms our commitment to providing biblically grounded, academically excellent education that equips men and women for service in ministry and the marketplace. Accreditation with AICCS means that our programs, faculty, and institutional practices meet established standards of quality and accountability for Christian higher education. It also demonstrates to our students, alumni, and ministry partners that Cornerstone is dedicated to stewardship, integrity, and ongoing institutional improvement.
At the same time, we remain actively engaged in the process of pursuing accreditation with the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS). Cornerstone is currently in Communication Status with TRACS, meaning we are in dialogue with the association, working to align our policies, practices, and documentation with their rigorous standards based on our first application submission. This status reflects both our seriousness about accountability and our long-term vision to position Cornerstone within the broader landscape of nationally recognized Christian higher education.
Accreditation is more than a credential — it is a testimony of trust. For Cornerstone, it represents our resolve to remain faithful to Christ, steadfast in doctrine, and committed to student-centered excellence. As we continue in relationship with both AICCS and TRACS, we are building a firm foundation for future growth while keeping our mission at the center: to equip Christian students for kingdom impact in their local churches and throughout the world.
Accreditation is more than just a status for a college — it is a promise to students. For those studying at Cornerstone, accreditation ensures that your education meets established standards of academic quality, integrity, and accountability. It means your courses are reviewed by external evaluators, your professors are held to high qualifications, and the institution as a whole is committed to continuous improvement.
For students, this translates into several important benefits:
- Credibility of Your Degree: Accreditation shows churches, ministries, employers, and graduate schools that your degree is earned through a legitimate, recognized program.
- Transferability: It makes it easier to transfer credits if you continue your education elsewhere.
- Confidence in Quality: Accreditation guarantees that Cornerstone is not simply issuing diplomas but providing real, rigorous preparation for ministry.
- Accountability and Improvement: Accreditation requires regular self-study and external review, so you can trust that the education you receive is always being strengthened.
Most importantly, accreditation means that your investment of time, finances, and effort has lasting value. It gives assurance that your training for ministry at Cornerstone stands on a foundation of quality, credibility, and faithfulness to God’s Word.
Accreditation FAQ for Students
Accreditation means Cornerstone College & Seminary has been reviewed by outside evaluators and meets established standards of academic quality and integrity. It’s a public assurance that your education is both credible and valuable.
It gives credibility to your degree, ensures your courses meet high-quality standards, and shows future employers, churches, and graduate schools that your training is recognized and respected.
Yes. Accredited programs are more widely accepted if you choose to transfer to another school or pursue graduate study. Accreditation makes it easier for your credits to be recognized. Students should always check with the institution they want to transfer to requesting confirmation of the credit acceptance.
Definitely. Accreditation assures churches, ministry organizations, and employers that you’ve been prepared through a legitimate, trustworthy program.
Currently, Cornerstone does not participate in Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA). We strive to keep tuition low so students can graduate without debt with our Pay-As-You-Go program, in-house scholarship programs, and monthly payment plans.
Because it protects the value of your hard work. Accreditation means your investment of time, effort, and finances is building toward a degree that will carry weight for years to come.
Religious Exemption Status
State Council for Higher Education of Virginia (SCHEV) Religious Exemption
CCS is a religious institution exempt from state regulation and oversight in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
*SCHEV is not an accrediting agency.
At Cornerstone, I am able to take courses at cheaper tuition rates than other colleges. Plus, the professors are very friendly and every class feels personal.
Daniel Gowaty CCS Student