IOQM International Organization for Quality Management ™ ™ - Credentialing Requirements

Here are the requirements for each of the IOQM Accreditation, outlining the criteria and process that organizations must meet to achieve accreditation:

Accreditation Requirements for Skills Certification Program or Diploma Certificate

The following outlines the accreditation requirements for a skills certification program or diploma certificate. These requirements ensure that the program meets established educational and industry standards, guaranteeing its credibility, value, and recognition.

1. Program Design and Curriculum Development

• Clear Learning Outcomes: The program must have clearly defined learning outcomes that specify the knowledge, skills, and competencies students are expected to acquire upon completion.

• Curriculum Alignment: The curriculum must be aligned with current industry standards, labor market needs, and professional expectations. The content should be relevant, up-to-date, and based on best practices in the field.

• Instructional Methodology: The program must employ effective instructional methods that support the achievement of learning outcomes, such as lectures, workshops, hands-on training, case studies, and assessments.

• Program Duration: The program must specify the expected duration (in terms of hours or months) and include a clear structure of learning activities and assessments that justify the length of the program.

2. Qualified Faculty and Instructors

• Credentials of Faculty: Faculty and instructors must possess the necessary academic qualifications, certifications, and professional experience in the subject area they are teaching. A minimum of a relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent is typically required for instructors, with preference for those holding advanced degrees or industry certifications.

• Experience and Competence: Instructors should have significant practical experience in the field and a proven track record in delivering high-quality education and training. This may include professional certifications, years of experience in the industry, or previous teaching roles.

• Ongoing Professional Development: Faculty members must engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with new trends, technologies, and methodologies in their field.

3. Assessment and Evaluation

• Valid and Reliable Assessments: The program must include assessments that are valid, reliable, and aligned with the program’s learning outcomes. These may include written exams, practical demonstrations, project-based evaluations, and portfolio submissions.

• Fair and Transparent Grading: Grading and evaluation criteria must be clearly defined and consistently applied. Students should have access to feedback and the opportunity to appeal assessment results if necessary.

• Continuous Improvement: The program should have a system in place for regularly reviewing and updating assessments to ensure they remain relevant and accurately reflect the competencies required in the industry.

4. Student Support Services

• Academic Support: The program must provide students with access to academic support services, such as tutoring, mentorship, and counseling, to help them succeed.

• Career Services: The program should offer career services, including job placement assistance, internships, industry partnerships, and networking opportunities to support students in securing employment in the field.

• Learning Resources: The program must provide students with access to necessary learning resources, including textbooks, online materials, software, and equipment relevant to their course of study.

5. Program Administration and Governance

• Clear Policies and Procedures: The program must have well-documented policies and procedures for admissions, progression, graduation, and student conduct. These should be accessible to all stakeholders, including students, faculty, and administrators.

• Quality Assurance Mechanisms: The program must have a system for monitoring and evaluating its effectiveness, such as periodic internal audits, feedback surveys from students and industry stakeholders, and outcomes tracking (e.g., graduation rates, employment rates).

• Accreditation or Licensing: The program must be in compliance with all relevant local, regional, or national accreditation bodies and licensing requirements. It should undergo a formal evaluation process to ensure it meets the standards set by recognized accrediting organizations.

• Industry Involvement: The program should engage with industry professionals, employers, and other key stakeholders to ensure its curriculum remains relevant and responsive to evolving industry demands.

6. Infrastructure and Facilities

• Adequate Facilities: The program must be delivered in an environment that provides appropriate facilities for learning, such as classrooms, laboratories, equipment, and access to technology.

• Health and Safety Standards: The facilities and program activities must adhere to relevant health, safety, and environmental standards. Students should be trained in safe practices as part of their curriculum, particularly for skills requiring physical work or the use of specialized equipment.

7. Transparency and Documentation

• Clear Program Documentation: The program must provide clear, comprehensive documentation, including a detailed course syllabus, faculty qualifications, assessment criteria, and learning resources. Students must have access to information on fees, registration processes, and program outcomes.

• Accreditation Statement: The program must display the accreditation status and the name of the accrediting body on official materials, certificates, and diplomas awarded to students upon successful completion.

• Annual Reporting: The program must submit an annual report to the accrediting body, providing updates on enrollment, graduation rates, student achievements, program revisions, and any challenges faced by the institution.

8. Continuous Review and Improvement

• Ongoing Evaluation: The program should incorporate an ongoing process for self-assessment and external evaluation. This process should include regular feedback from students, faculty, employers, and other stakeholders to identify areas for improvement.

• Action Plans: Based on evaluation results, the program should implement action plans to address identified weaknesses, improve the quality of instruction, and ensure that the program adapts to changes in industry standards, technology, and educational best practices.