What are CEU Credits?
Professionals whose jobs require a license to operate are expected to continuously keep abreast of changes and outdated practices within their professions. It is mandatory that these professionals enroll in continuing education classes, which offer continuing education units (CEU) as documentation that they have attended and completed the CEU classes.
Who Sets Standards for Continuing Education?
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) report standards of its organization to the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET), which then communicates standards set by ANSI to organizations and assists these organizations in instituting recommended continuing education programs for professionals. The standards of ANSI and IACET are universally accepted as good standards of practice.
Continuing Education schools must be accredited to ensure that their continuing education and training programs meet proper standards for offering continuing education classes and subsequently units to professionals.
What Represents one Continuing Education Unit?
Ten contact hours, with each hour measured at 60 minutes, represent one continuing education unit that is approved by ANSI and IACET as a legitimate continuing education experience. The award of one CEU documents that a professional has completed a provider approved continuing education requirement in a particular field as required.
Stringent Professional Requirements
Some professions require that individuals complete more than one CEU in order to stay current in their fields' current practices. In such cases, the continuing education units are mandatory in order to renew and retain license privileges.
Institutions that Award Continuing Education Units
Accreditation to conduct continuing education classes is given to an authorized provider that meets the demanding rules set by IACET. Colleges or universities designated as IACET providers for their particular industry can conduct classes and award the units.
Online Continuing Education Units
Online classes are popular avenues in the field of education. Be mindful to inquire from an online school whether it is accredited by IACET to offer or award continuing education units. Do your own cross-checking even if a recruiter verbally affirms that the school is accredited to award these units. Examine the school's bulletins and pamphlets and the website before enrolling.