VCU news

By Leila Ugincius

The Virginia Commonwealth University School of Business has successfully extended its accreditations for both its business and accounting programs by AACSB International – the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

AACSB accreditation is the hallmark of excellence in business education, and has been earned by less than 5 percent of the world's business programs. Today, there are 761 business schools in 52 countries and territories that have earned AACSB accreditation. Similarly, 183 institutions hold an additional specialized AACSB accreditation for their accounting programs.

During the multi-year continuous improvement review process, schools focus on developing and implementing a plan to align with AACSB’s accreditation standards. These standards require excellence in areas relating to strategic management and innovation; student, faculty and staff as active participants; learning and teaching; and academic and professional engagement. Accounting accreditation requires the satisfaction of an additional set of standards that are specific to the discipline and profession of accounting.

Confirmation of VCU’s extended accreditation comes shortly after the launch of EPIC, the School of Business’ new strategic plan, which seeks to drive the future of business through the power of creativity.

“The School of Business is focused on ensuring our graduates contribute fresh thinking and creative solutions to drive future success,” said Ed Grier, dean of the VCU School of Business. “This reaccreditation affirms our success and demonstrates the strengths, innovation and collaborative energy among students, faculty, staff and the community.” 

The Department of Accounting holistically develops and engages students so that they understand the demands of a career in accounting, as well as the professional expectations for accountants. Regular program review, which engages the feedback of faculty, students and members of the accounting community, is a critical part of ensuring that its programs consistently meet the evolving needs of the market, employers and students. “This accreditation is further confirmation of our faculty’s dedication to developing successful accounting professionals, producing high-quality intellectual contributions and creating collaborative relationships,” said Carolyn Norman, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Accounting. 

Founded in 1916, AACSB International is the longest-serving global accrediting body for business schools that offer undergraduate, master's and doctoral degrees in business and accounting. To learn more about AACSB International accreditation, visit http://www.aacsb.edu/accreditation/.