Western University of Health Sciences Receives Reaccreditation

Western University of Health Sciences has received a seven-year

reaccreditation from the Western

Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

WASC is one of six major regional accrediting associations nationwide that

ascertain whether an institution meets certain standards, meets the goals

it has set for itself and has the personnel and financial resources to

accomplish its objectives now and in the foreseeable future. Accreditation

also allows a college’s or university’s students obtain federal financial

aid.

This reaffirmation of accreditation indicates WASC believes Western

University has met or exceeded the standards set for it. Western

University received its initial WASC accreditation in 1995.

“”This is a wonderful achievement that reflects highly on the efforts of

our students, faculty and staff,”” said Philip Pumerantz, PhD,

president. “”Achieving this reaffirmation shows that our peers have

confidence in our ability to meet our mission and our goals.””

In its letter to Dr. Pumerantz announcing the reaccreditation, WASC’s

Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities lauded the

University on several fronts:

* its history of “”successfully serving a diverse student body””

* the University’s faculty “”have demonstrated a strong commitment to

innovative teaching and program delivery””

* Western University shows a “”genuine commitment to student access,

learning and success””

* its success in implementing new academic programs

* the delivery of the on-line programs in the College of Graduate

Nursing “”appears to be an excellent model””

* through its acquisition of former commercial buildings, Western

University “”has significantly contributed to revitalization of an urban

area””

* the institution “”is to be commended for its vision, creativity and

tenacity””

As is usually the case, the Commission noted some areas needing

improvement, including issues regarding professional development and

faculty workload. It also recommended the University develop a multi-year

financial plan as well as a formal facilities master plan. Because Western

University grew from a single college (the College of Osteopathic

Medicine of the Pacific) into a five-college university since WASC’s

last visit six years ago, the Commission also recommended the

University “”more clearly and systemically link academic program planning

to institutional priorities.””