Consumer beware: a few words about accreditation.

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to point out the dangers inherent in choosing schools or programs from the internet, particularly in the field of health services, which may not be accredited, and therefore not recognized either by other institutions or by employers.

Design/methodology/approach: The problem is described and some of the better known American accrediting agencies are listed.

Practical implications: The paper has practical implications in terms of providing useful steps for anyone interested in exploring a health services career through ongoing education.

Originality/value: The paper represents a viewpoint from the perspective of an American accreditation consultant who is familiar with the organizational and program accreditation system in the USA.