ACCREDITATION
UMBC is fully accredited, ensuring that its academic programs meet the highest standards of quality and rigor. Accreditation validates the university's commitment to academic excellence, institutional integrity, and student success.
Institutional Accreditation:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE):
- UMBC is accredited by the MSCHE, a regional accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- This accreditation ensures the institution meets rigorous standards for academic programs, governance, financial stability, and student outcomes.
- Current accreditation status: Fully accredited, reaffirmed during the last review cycle.
Program-Specific Accreditations:
Many UMBC programs hold additional specialized accreditations from professional and academic organizations, including:
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Engineering and Information Technology:
- ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology):
- Accreditation for programs in Computer Science, Engineering, and Information Systems.
- This ensures graduates are well-prepared for careers in technical and engineering fields.
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Business Programs:
- AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business):
- Accreditation for the School of Business programs, signifying excellence in business education and research.
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Social Work:
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE):
- Accreditation for the Bachelor’s and Master’s in Social Work programs, ensuring high standards in social work education.
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Education Programs:
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP):
- Accreditation for teacher preparation programs, meeting rigorous national standards for educator training.
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Public Policy:
- Accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) for its graduate programs.
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Health Sciences:
- Programs in Health Administration and Policy are aligned with recognized national standards for public health and healthcare management education.
Benefits of Accreditation:
- Transferability: Credits earned at UMBC are widely recognized by other accredited institutions.
- Financial Aid Eligibility: Accreditation allows students to qualify for federal and state financial aid programs.
- Career Readiness: Specialized program accreditations ensure graduates meet industry standards.
- Quality Assurance: Accreditation reflects UMBC's commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.
Continuous Review and Accreditation Maintenance:
UMBC regularly undergoes rigorous review processes by accrediting bodies to maintain its accreditation status and adapt to evolving educational standards.
For more details about UMBC’s accreditation, visit the Office of Institutional Research, Analysis, and Decision Support or the MSCHE website.