November 15, 2019

University of Wollongong earns prestigious AACSB International accreditation

UOW recognised among leading business schools in the world with newly awarded accreditation

The University of Wollongong (UOW) has received accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International, a globally recognised accreditation that has been awarded to only the top five per cent of the world’s business schools.

Professor Charles Areni (pictured below), Executive Dean of UOW’s Faculty of Business, welcomed the announcement from AACSB International overnight (Thursday 14 November, US EST).

“We strive to create graduates who are career ready and also responsible global citizens. This commitment is captured in our mission statement and drives everything we do. Our graduates get good jobs, and they also do good things in the world,” Professor Areni said.

“To be recognised by AACSB, and awarded five-year accreditation, is truly gratifying for the University. This achievement highlights our commitment to the AACSB pillars of engagement, innovation, and impact, and our focus on continuously improving our programs.”

Synonymous with the highest standards of quality since 1916, AACSB International accreditation is a public recognition of an institution that has met the most rigorous standards of excellence in business education. Institutions that are accredited are committed to upholding and advancing the quality of their business programs.

Professor Paul Wellings CBE, UOW Vice-Chancellor, said the AACSB International accreditation reflected the exceptional work of the staff in the Faculty of Business.

“I’m immensely proud of this achievement, which demonstrates our credentials and our drive to shape the next generation of business leaders who will make their mark on the world,” Professor Wellings said.

Stephanie M Bryant, Executive Vice President and Chief Accreditation Officer of AACSB International, congratulated the University on its success in achieving the accreditation.

“The University of Wollongong’s commitment to earning accreditation is a true reflection of their dedication—not only to their students, alumni network, and greater business community, but to the higher education industry as a whole,” Ms Bryant said.

“Today’s students are tomorrow’s business leaders, and the addition of the Faculty of Business to the network of AACSB-accredited business schools will have a lasting positive impact for their institution, both locally and globally.”

AACSB International is the longest-serving global accrediting body for business schools, and the largest business education network connecting students, academics, and business worldwide.

In order to earn and sustain business accreditation, an institution must align with a set of 15 standards that focus on mission and strategic management; support for students, faculty, and staff; learning and teaching; and academic and professional engagement of students and faculty.

The accreditation process is a rigorous process that ensures business schools are delivering the very best in business education. AACSB International accreditation signals to the business community that graduates and alumni from accredited schools are prepared to lead in today’s competitive, global business environment.