POINT LOOKOUT, MO. —The business department at College of the Ozarks has earned accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), recognizing the department’s commitment to quality business education, student learning, and continuous improvement.
ACBSP is a specialized accrediting organization that recognizes business programs that demonstrate excellence in teaching and student learning. Receiving accreditation signifies that the business department has met rigorous national standards in areas including curriculum, faculty qualifications, strategic planning, assessment of student learning, and overall program quality.
The accreditation provides an external validation of the education it provides while reinforcing its commitment to preparing students for successful careers in business.
“As someone who has served the College during the past two decades, it is especially rewarding to see our business department receive ACBSP accreditation after years of intentional planning, collaboration, and continuous improvement,” said Dr. Autumn Moody, director of business assessment and professor of Business. “This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff, who spent the past two years strengthening our curriculum, enhancing assessment processes, and demonstrating our commitment to student learning.”
The accreditation process took approximately two years and required faculty and staff to examine and strengthen nearly every aspect of the Business Department. Faculty evaluated the curriculum, improved assessment processes, and collected at least three semesters of student learning data to demonstrate that students were achieving established learning outcomes.
The department also prepared a comprehensive self-study report documenting faculty qualifications, program effectiveness, and evidence of improvement. The process concluded with an external peer review conducted by experienced business educators who evaluated the program and confirmed that it met ACBSP’s accreditation standards.
Although the process required a significant investment of time and effort, it provided the business department with an opportunity to examine how its programs serve students and identify ways to strengthen their education. Faculty continues to use assessment data and feedback from students, alumni, employers, and the Business Advisory Board to ensure courses remain relevant to the needs of today’s workforce.
For current and prospective students, the accreditation provides assurance that they are earning a degree from a business program that has been independently evaluated and meets nationally recognized standards. It also demonstrates that students are receiving an education that is regularly evaluated and improved to prepare them for their future careers.
Graduating from an ACBSP-accredited program can also provide additional credibility with employers and graduate schools. In some cases, graduate schools may waive the GMAT requirement for students whose bachelor’s degree comes from an ACBSP-accredited program.
While ACBSP accreditation places the business department among nationally recognized business programs, the College offers students an experience that extends beyond traditional business education. The program combines nationally recognized academic standards with the College’s Christ-centered mission, Work Education Program, and emphasis on ethical leadership and character development.
Through the Work Education Program, business students gain practical experience while pursuing their degrees, allowing them to develop professional skills alongside their classroom education. This combination of academic preparation, work experience, and character development reflects the College’s broader mission of preparing students to lead with integrity and serve others in their professions and communities.
“I hope prospective students, alumni, and supporters see this accreditation as confirmation of what many have already experienced at College of the Ozarks a business program that is deeply committed to academic excellence, ethical leadership, and student success,” Moody said. “This achievement demonstrates that our program meets nationally recognized standards while remaining true to the College’s Christ-centered mission and unique Work Education Program.”
The accreditation marks an important achievement for the Business Department, but it also establishes a foundation for continued growth. Through the College’s Academic, Christian, Cultural, Patriotic, and Vocational Pillars, the Business Department will continue preparing students with the knowledge, experience, and character needed to make a positive impact in their professions and communities.
For additional information, contact Public Relations Director Valorie Coleman at (417) 690-2212.