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University Royal Charter & Accreditation
ROYAL ACCREDITATION
Harvest Christian University holds distinguished “Royal Accreditation” through the Kingdom of Hawai‘i Royal Accreditation Commission (KOHRAC), an independent accreditation authority established in January 2018 by HRM King Edmund K. Paki-Silva Jr. KOHRAC was chartered by royal decree to provide formal recognition and quality assurance for educational institutions that center Indigenous knowledge, methodologies, and cultural values within their curricula.
KOHRAC’s accreditation framework is unique in that it bridges conventional Western educational standards with Indigenous “Ways of Knowing,” ensuring that programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels meet rigorous academic criteria while honoring the traditions and perspectives of Indigenous peoples worldwide. This includes accreditation for higher education, Indigenous teacher education, pre-school to 12th grade, and trade schools and certifications.
The authority for KOHRAC accreditation is issued by the Sovereign King of the Kingdom of Hawai‘i, and the commission is tasked not only with monitoring curriculum but also with developing culturally relevant assessment tools and progress measurement systems.
KOHRAC’s mission is to provide Indigenous peoples-representing more than 6% of the global population-with access to high-quality, culturally-affirming education.
In addition to KOHRAC, Harvest Christian University is recognized by other international accrediting bodies and is actively pursuing further regional accreditation to broaden its academic standing and reach. Royal accreditation affirms the university’s commitment to academic excellence, Indigenous empowerment, and global educational standards, positioning it as a leader in innovative, inclusive higher education.
This royal accreditation enhances the university’s credibility, supports its mission of serving diverse and Indigenous communities, and ensures that its graduates receive qualifications respected both within Indigenous contexts and in the broader academic and professional world.
Other
Accrediting Bodies
Harvest Christian University holds accreditation with several international accrediting bodies, including:
- Board of Quality Standards (BQS)
- Kingdom of Hawai’i Royal Accreditation Commission (KOHRAC)
- Harvest Christian University’s own Department of Extension Campus Accreditation (DECA), which accredits extension campuses, church ministries, and Indigenous learning centers in alignment with the university’s mission and core principles.
Summary Statement
International Accreditation & University Partners
The Board of Quality Standards Accreditation (BQS)
The Board of Quality Standards Accreditation (BQS)
The Board of Quality Standards Accreditation (BQS)
Harvest Christian University (HCU) is certified by the Board of Quality Standards (BQS), a prominent international quality assurance regulator and a member of the International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE). BQS operates as an independent third-party certification body, providing rigorous certification services for Quality Management Systems within higher education institutions.
BQS certification means that HCU’s academic and operational practices are regularly evaluated against internationally recognized benchmarks. Specifically, BQS complies with the accreditation requirements of several key ISO standards, including ISO 17021, ISO Guide 53, ISO Guide 65, and ISO Guide 67. These standards, set forth by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ensure that HCU maintains high levels of quality assurance, risk management, and institutional integrity.
As a BQS-accredited institution, HCU is recognized for promoting and adhering to best practices in higher education quality assurance. BQS serves as a global authoritative body, providing expert opinions and information on qualifications and quality certification worldwide. This accreditation affirms that HCU’s degrees, certifications, and institutional processes are held to stringent international standards, supporting their acceptance and credibility on a global scale.
In summary, BQS accreditation underscores Harvest Christian University’s commitment to continuous improvement, transparency, and excellence, giving students, employers, and partner institutions confidence in the quality and global relevance of its educational offerings.
- BQS Certifications (BQS) is an independent third-party certification body that provides certification services for Quality Management Systems.
- BQS complies with the accreditation requirements of ISO 17021, ISO Guide 53, ISO Guide 65, and ISO Guide 67 set forth by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
- The Board of Quality Standards (BQS) is an international quality assurance regulator and a member of the International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE).
- BQS serves as a Quality Assurance Authoritative Body to promote quality assurance in higher education and certification bodies.
- BQS is an international agency responsible for providing information and expert opinions on qualifications and quality certification worldwide
Ballasbridge University Accreditation Education (BU)
The Board of Quality Standards Accreditation (BQS)
The Board of Quality Standards Accreditation (BQS)
Harvest Christian University (HCU) maintains a formal academic association with Ballsbridge University (BU), a globally recognized independent institution based in the Commonwealth of Dominica. This relationship is significant because BU’s accreditation framework and quality assurance systems are closely aligned with the standards upheld by HCU, particularly through shared regulatory bodies and international recognition.
Key Points of Ballsbridge University’s Accreditation and Recognition:
- Board of Quality Standards (BQS):
Ballsbridge University’s accreditation framework is regulated by the Board of Quality Standards (BQS), the same international quality assurance body that certifies HCU. BQS is an INQAAHE member and provides oversight for quality management systems, ensuring compliance with ISO 9001:2008 and other global benchmarks. The BU curriculum is accredited at the Ballsbridge Qualification Framework (BQF), which is recognized as equivalent to the UK’s QCF levels and is regulated by BQS.
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- Global Recognition and Evaluation:
Degrees from Ballsbridge University are internationally recognized and have been accepted by various governments, private sector employers, multinational businesses, and higher education institutions for further study. BU qualifications are also recognized by independent U.S. credential evaluators as foreign diploma equivalents to regionally accredited U.S. degrees. - ISO Certification:
BU is certified to ISO 9001:2008, with its quality manual regularly audited by BQS, reinforcing its commitment to high standards in academic delivery and institutional management2. - Transnational Education Provider:
BU operates as a transnational education provider with affiliate campuses and centers in various countries, offering blended learning and open education models.
Significance for Harvest Christian University:
Through its association with Ballsbridge University, HCU aligns itself with a partner that is deeply embedded in a network of international accreditation, quality assurance, and global academic standards. This partnership enhances HCU’s academic credibility, supports the global recognition of its degrees, and demonstrates its commitment to rigorous, internationally benchmarked education.
The Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS
The International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education ( INQAAHE )
The International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education ( INQAAHE )
The Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)
is a nationally and internationally recognized accrediting agency, acknowledged by both the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)47. Harvest Christian University’s accreditation by TRACS, effective January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2028, is a significant affirmation of its commitment to academic excellence, operational integrity, and Christian values.
TRACS accreditation is awarded only to institutions that meet rigorous standards across all areas of institutional operation.
The process includes a comprehensive self-study, peer evaluation, and ongoing compliance with 17 detailed standards, which cover everything from institutional mission and governance to academic programs, faculty qualifications, student services, financial operations, and federal requirements. These standards ensure that accredited institutions not only deliver high-quality education but also maintain ethical practices and sound financial management.
For Christian colleges and universities, TRACS accreditation provides several key benefits. It validates the institution’s academic programs and degrees, making them widely recognized and respected by employers, other universities, and government agencies. It also enables students to access federal financial aid and assures families and stakeholders that the institution is committed to continuous improvement and accountability. Importantly, TRACS accreditation requires institutions to integrate faith and learning, ensuring that academic excellence is coupled with a strong foundation in evangelical Christian values.
By earning and maintaining TRACS accreditation, Harvest Christian University demonstrates its dedication to providing a high standard of Christian higher education, preparing students for both professional success and principled leadership in a global context.
The International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education ( INQAAHE )
The International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education ( INQAAHE )
The International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education ( INQAAHE )
HARVEST CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY: BQS ACCREDITATION AND GLOBAL QUALITY RECOGNITION
Harvest Christian University (HCU) is certified by the Board of Quality Standards (BQS), an independent international quality assurance regulatory agency and a recognized member of the International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE). This certification demonstrates HCU’s commitment to meeting rigorous global benchmarks in higher education and institutional management.
BQS provides third-party certification services for Quality Management Systems in higher education, ensuring that institutions like HCU comply with internationally respected standards such as ISO 17021, ISO Guide 53, ISO Guide 65, and ISO Guide 672. These ISO standards are established by the International Organization for Standardization and are recognized worldwide as measures of excellence in quality assurance, risk management, and operational integrity.
As a BQS-accredited institution, HCU undergoes regular evaluation and continuous improvement processes that assess academic programs, faculty qualifications, student services, and institutional governance against international best practices. The BQS seal confirms that HCU’s degrees, certifications, and operational procedures are held to the highest standards, supporting global recognition and transferability.
Additionally, BQS’s membership in INQAAHE connects HCU to a global network of quality assurance agencies spanning over 140 countries, further validating the university’s credentials and reputation on the international stage. This recognition assures students, employers, and partner institutions that HCU is dedicated to excellence, transparency, and ongoing quality enhancement in all aspects of its academic mission
Harvest Christian University Royal Charter
Royal Charter Accreditation
Royal schools that operate under a Royal charter are not regulated by the federal or state government in public schools. Schools with a Royal charter, such as Canford School, Christ's Hospital, and King's College School, among others, are established through a formal document issued by the monarch or other royal figure, granting them certain rights and privileges.
A Royal charter and regulation serve distinct purposes in governance. A Royal charter is a formal document issued by the monarch, granting independent legal standing to an organization and defining its objectives. These charters have been used since the 12th century to incorporate companies, public bodies, cities, universities, and professional institutions. They confer legal personality on the organization and define its powers to govern its own affairs.
These regulation involve rules and standards set by the governmental bodies to oversee various aspects of an organization's operations. While a Royal charter grants autonomy and legal status to an entity, regulation involves monitoring compliance with specific laws, guidelines, or standards set by the governmental bodies. For example, in the context of press regulation, a Royal charter may establish a body to oversee press regulation without directly regulating the press itself.
In summary, a Royal charter provides legal status and independence to an organization, while regulation involves setting and enforcing rules and standards for compliance within a particular sector or industry.
The benefits of having a Royal Charter for Organizations include:
- Recognition of professional expertise and status within the field.
- Professional recognition from peers and the public.
- Protection of the profession's status and reputation.
- Increased public confidence and awareness.
- Enhanced profile for the organization and its members.
- Strengthening of the organization's brand and creating aspiration.
- Potential for increased membership and retention.
- Opportunity to act in the public interest while maintaining autonomy.
These benefits highlight how a Royal charter can elevate an organization's standing, provide credibility, and enhance its impact within its area of expertise.
