Lakewood University was formerly known by the American Center for Conflict Resolution Institute (herein referred to as ACCRI). ACCRI was originally formed in 1998 as an organization offering mediation, arbitration, and continuing education services. ACCRI began to offer mediation courses through distance education in December 2004 throughout the world.
In 2005, ACCRI became licensed by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools. At this time ACCRI only had two vocational programs: Mediation Certificate Program and Paralegal Diploma Program.
On June 7, 2008, ACCRI became a nationally accredited member of the Distance Education Accrediting Commission DEAC.
As ACCRI found success educating those who wanted to excel in the mediation and legal system space, it became apparent that our design and delivery processes would benefit those who desired advancement in other career fields as well.
In early 2009, the governing board of ACCRI voted to change the name of the organization from ACCRI to Lakewood College to better reflect the credit-bearing course programming it saw in its future.
Lakewood then began offering online certificates in Administrative Medical Assistant, Criminal Justice, Mediation, Medical Billing, Medical Coding, Paralegal Studies, and Pharmacy Technician. Further, Lakewood has two online associate degrees in paralegal studies and business management.
In 2016, Lakewood’s above associate degree programs became authorized by the Ohio Department of Higher Education.
In 2020, Lakewood was approved to begin offering Associate Degrees in Information Technology and Healthcare Administration as well as four Bachelor Degree Programs in Information Technology, Healthcare Administration, Business Management, and Paralegal Studies. During this same year, Lakewood was approved to offer a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) program.
In August of 2020, Lakewood College became Lakewood University. On November 5, 2020, Lakewood University was approved to offer Title IV financial aid in the form of Pell Grants.
Lakewood University has retained accreditation with the DEAC for 12 years, its license with the State Board of Career Colleges and schools for over 16 years, and its authorization for degree programs with the Ohio Department of Higher Education. Further, Lakewood to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) to offer its programs nationwide.
To earn your degree on your terms. Enroll in Lakewood University, and get a world-class education right from the comfort of your own home!
