Blackburn College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Blackburn College was successfully granted reaccreditation in 2020-2021 following a comprehensive evaluation of Blackburn’s work in its mission, ethical conduct, academic programs, and institutional effectiveness. The campus-wide, multi-year process culminated with an intensive peer-review visit. Blackburn’s regular accreditation review is scheduled for the 2030-2031 academic year. The next comprehensive evaluation and on-site visit is scheduled for December 9, 2024.

The Illinois State Teacher Certification Board and the State Superintendent of Education recognize its teacher education programs. The American Association of University Women grants Blackburn women graduates membership.
 
In addition to its representative memberships in various organizations that benefit specific administrative and academic departments, the College holds institutional memberships in the Council of Independent Colleges, the College Entrance Examination Board, the Federation of Illinois Colleges and Universities, the Associated Colleges of Illinois, the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges, and the Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities.
 
The Illinois State Board of Education approves our Teacher Education program, which includes 15 teacher licensure areas. Gateways for Opportunity entitles our Early Childhood program.  Blackburn’s  Business with an emphasis in Human Resource Management program is fully aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) HR curriculum guidelines.