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.””