PCE Receives Renewed Psychology Accreditation

Within its first year and a half of existence, Regent University's Professional & Continuing Education (PCE) division is already at work obtaining full accreditation from the American Psychology Association (APA). PCE was awarded APA approval recently to deliver Continuing Education (CE) courses for psychologists and other mental health professionals. This is the first renewal PCE has been granted as a sponsor of Regent's continuing education.

Accreditation from the APA was given to SPC based on academic merit and the caliber of the school's programming. According to Grace Alegre, the director of professional licensure programs for PCE, gaining such recognition is met by elation from those involved with the process.

"It gives credibility to the university," Alegre explained. "We're competing now, really head-to-head, with larger universities who have had continuing education programs for a long time."

Not only does the five-year APA accreditation give a higher esteem to the university's representation, it also provides a way for Regent to contribute to the careers of local psychology and counseling professionals who are seeking license renewals.

"The main purpose of the school is to offer the degree programs, but now we're able to reach out to the community with continuing education," Alegre noted.

When Alegre began her position at PCE in November 2012, steps for renewing APA accreditation had already been taking place with SPC for six months.

"[This renewal] was not achieved without the help of the School of Psychology & Counseling, and the courses developed by them," said Alegre. "Because of their compliance, their transition helped us as a department."

The PCE division will build on its success, continuing to refine and expand its program offerings in several fields and industries.

"There's a real purpose-driven feeling that there is validity to what we're offering," says Alegre. "It's not just a fly by night program; this is something that is cutting edge for Regent education."

Learn more about PCE's programs.

PR/NEWS CONTACT:
Mindy Hughes, Public Relations
Phone: 757.352.4095 Fax: 757.352.4888
E-mail: mhughes@regent.edu