Board of Institutional Review

California's accreditation system for educator preparation programs depends on a large cadre of dedicated education professionals who are committed to ensuring that preparation programs in the state are of high quality. The Board of Institutional Review (BIR) is comprised of individuals with expertise across all credential areas who confirm that institutions are implementing programs aligned with Commission adopted standards.

Members of the Board of Institutional Review (BIR) participate in the accreditation system in the following ways:

  1. Initial Program Review- Review of proposals for new educator preparation programs.
  2. Program Review- Review documentation and evidence for currently operating programs to ensure they are in alignment with the Commission adopted Program Standards.
  3. Common Standards Review- Review documentation and evidence for currently operating program sponsors to ensure alignment with the Commission's adopted Common Standards. 
  4. Site Visit Team Member- Team members are typically comprised of a subset of individuals who have participated in either the Program Review process or Common Standards review process for a given institution.

BIR training occurs in two parts.  Part 1 of BIR training is completed through participation in Program Review.  To be considered for Part 1 of BIR training, please complete the "Reviewer Expertise and Availability Survey" available in the Spring in the PSD e-News. Once you have participated in Program Review, you will be eligible for Part 2 of BIR training. Site Visit training is scheduled in the spring/summer following Program Review.

    Qualifications of a prospective BIR member include:

    • At least three years of professional experience in education;
    • Experience with qualitative evaluations;
    • Experience with multiple levels and different sets of education related standards;
    • Personal characteristics including integrity, objectivity, empathy, ability to work under pressure, organizational ability, time management, and being a team player;
    • Experience with collaboration in writing and problem solving;
    • Good communication skills (both oral and written);
    • Experience with data collection and analysis;
    • Familiarity with technology, including the use of both MAC and PC platforms; and
    • Ability to access electronic information, search for pertinent information, and appropriately cite the source for inclusion in the team report.


      • For more information about the Board of Institutional Review, see the Accreditation Handbook, Chapter 11.

      If you are interested in becoming a BIR member or for any questions please send an email to Accreditation@ctc.ca.gov.
    Updated November 17, 2023