The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is a nonprofit, private, postsecondary educational institution incorporated for the purpose of promoting education and research in gemology and related subjects. GIA’s mission is to ensure the public trust by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism through education, research, laboratory services, and instrument development.

GIA Carlsbad is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCSCT). GIA Los Angeles and GIA New York are each accredited by the ACCSCT as branches of GIA Carlsbad. ACCSCT’s accreditation is institutional in nature and includes GIA Resident Education. ACCSCT does not accredit GIA’s Distance Education, Lab or Continuing Education programs and courses. GIA’s Distance Education courses are accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). ACCSCT and DETC are listed by the U.S. Department of Education as nationally recognized accrediting agencies.

GIA New York is licensed by the New York State Education Department.

On June 30, 2007, the law governing private postsecondary schools in California expired, therefore no regulatory oversight agency currently exists in California. To demonstrate its commitment to student and consumer protection, GIA continues to uphold the highest ethical standards with respect to students, prospective students and the public and continues to adhere to those student protection measures that existed prior to the law’s expiration. For more information on the status of pending legislation or for additional information about the expiration of the Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education Reform Act of 1989, please contact the State of California, Department of Consumer Affairs,  http://www.bppve.ca.gov/.

The mailing address for GIA's world headquarters is:

Gemological Institute of America
The Robert Mouawad Campus
5345 Armada Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008 USA