Tri-State University’s Ketner School of Business has achieved “candidate for accreditation” status with the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), one of three national accrediting organizations.  Jeff Sherlock, Ed.D., dean of the Ketner School of Business, was notified a couple of weeks ago. 

“This is an exciting time for our business school,” said Sherlock.  “We have been researching accreditation options for the past few years looking for one that fits our teaching philosophy.  We’ve pushed really hard to get to this point – and we’re looking forward to the final stage of the process.  The ACBSP is an excellent accreditation association that has standards based on the Malcolm Baldridge Award, which focuses on long-term improvement in quality and productivity.”

Over the next year, TSU’s Ketner School of Business will be preparing a self-study in preparation for full accreditation.  The self-study will focus on a number of areas including leadership, strategic planning, focus on students and stakeholders, evaluation of student learning and performance, focus on faculty and staff development and performance, and overall efficiency and effectiveness. 

“Accreditation is, in my opinion, a waste of time if we just focus on getting accreditation,” said Sherlock.  “Our focus is to have a continuous improvement of business education focusing on our students, faculty, and the business community.  Accreditation for the Ketner School of Business is a win-win for everyone.”

Founded in 1988, the ACBSP was created by its members to fulfill a need for a specialized accreditation program by institutions of higher education with business schools and programs.  Specifically, that need was for business education accreditation based on the mission of the institution and of the respective unit, an accreditation that acknowledged and emphasized quality in teaching and learning outcomes.  The ACBSP also encourages faculty involvement within the contemporary business world to enhance the quality of classroom instruction and to contribute to student learning.