South College is authorized by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission to confer Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Business Administration, and Associate of Science degrees, as well as various certificate level programs. This authorization must be renewed each year and is based on an evaluation of minimum standards concerning quality of education, ethical business practices, health and safety, and fiscal responsibility. South College is approved for the training of veterans and other eligible beneficiaries by the Tennessee Division of Veterans Education.

South College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award baccalaureate and associate degrees.