AQC is a division of DEAC, however it does not offer an accreditation status. It is designed to offer an assessment process for distance education that engages an external quality review system conducted by a network of higher education curriculum experts. While AQC is not an accreditation organization, it employs a peer review process aimed at providing distance education course providers with meaningful and relevant feedback. This feedback is consistent with the quality enhancement and improvement principles that underpin accreditation.

A hallmark of the AQC process is its emphasis on how individual courses contribute to the mastery of learning objectives that may be part of a comprehensive program of study or credential. The AQC implements a rigorous approach to course-level evaluation for the curricula submitted by providers seeking AQC endorsement. By leveraging an extensive network of peer reviewers—who are subject matter experts and experienced in distance education—the AQC delivers constructive insights that support continuous improvement.

The AQC process specifically focuses on the quality of curriculum and the effectiveness of the distance education delivery system. The AQC evaluation process affirms:

• Educational objectives are clearly defined.
• The character, nature, quality, value, source of instruction, and educational services are set forth in a manner that is appropriate for the type of learner enrolled.
• The educational objectives are reasonably attainable through electronic means, online delivery, or other methods of distance study.
• Educational objectives are clearly aligned with stated learning outcomes for the course.
• The learning activities and assignments are aligned with the educational objectives and outcomes.
• The curriculum is sufficiently comprehensive for learners to achieve the stated educational objectives, is coherent in its content and sequencing, and is supported by sound research and practice.
• Curriculum is designed to require learners to engage in analysis, synthesis, and evaluation as part of the course requirements.
• The curriculum reflects current knowledge and practice.
• Instructional materials are sufficiently comprehensive to enable learners to achieve the announced program objectives.
• Movement through the course is intuitive and logical, and a consistent layout design orients learners throughout the course.
• Examinations and other assessment techniques reflect current knowledge and practice.
• Curriculum delivery utilizes a positive and supportive tone in instructions, learning activities, and learner-instructor engagement.

More details on the quality standards of review are available in the AQC Curriculum Evaluation Rubric.