What Does AACSB-Accredited Mean to You?
All degrees and graduate certificate programs at the University of Missouri–St. Louis Ed G. Smith College of Business are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the global gold standard for business education.
UMSL is the only public university in the St. Louis region with dual AACSB accreditation in both business and accounting at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Fewer than 6% of business schools worldwide hold AACSB accreditation, placing UMSL’s Ed G. Smith College of Business among an elite group of institutions committed to the highest standards in business education. Even fewer schools hold dual AACSB accreditation in both business and accounting, a distinction achieved by UMSL.
Employers and graduate schools worldwide recognize AACSB accreditation as a mark of excellence in business education, signaling that graduates have been educated in programs that meet rigorous global standards.
Why Do Some Institutions Say They Are "Fully Accredited"?
Other schools admit that the term "fully accredited" means that the institution as a whole (not the business school) holds accreditation from a regional accrediting body. For example, UMSL holds institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. The AACSB designation is an additional tier of accreditation specific to the university's business degree programs.
Is AACSB Membership the Same as Being AACSB-Accredited?
No. AACSB membership is a paid affiliation that allows institutions to participate in AACSB’s global network and professional development opportunities. AACSB accreditation, however, requires a rigorous peer-review process that evaluates a school’s curriculum, faculty qualifications, technology, resources, and commitment to continuous improvement.
Why AACSB Accreditation Matters?
UMSL's AACSB-accredited business programs meet rigorous standards, including:
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Faculty engaged in cutting-edge research and staying current with the latest developments in their fields.
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Degree programs designed to equip students with the knowledge, tools, and skills needed for career success, while preparing graduates for a lifetime of professional growth and leadership.
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A clearly defined mission and vision, supported by strategic planning, regular assessment, and continuous improvement through ongoing evaluation.
AACSB accreditation helps ensure that students receive a high-quality business education from expert faculty within a program committed to excellence and continuous improvement.
Because of these standards, graduates of AACSB-accredited programs are often more competitive in the job market and better prepared for leadership roles in business and industry.
