The US Department of Education recognizes 6 distinct educational regions, each of which is overseen by a different accrediting body. The Western Region comprises the coastal states of California and Hawai’i, as well as the US territories of Guam, American Samoa and others. The quality of the private colleges and universities in this region is monitored through accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Think “the west is the best”? Then check out the private colleges and universities in the Western Region!