Accreditation is the review system that determines whether colleges and programs meet acceptable standards. Receiving accredited status is usually necessary for access to government funding or student loans.

Independent contractors are individuals who engage in short-term, flexible, freelance work instead of permanent, full-time employment. Examples of companies that currently hire independent contrators are Uber, Meituan, Didi, MyCar, etc. These companies are commonly referred to as part of the 'gig economy'.