Specialized Accreditations

In addition to SACSCOC accreditation of the entire University, many programs also maintain specialized or programmatic accreditation. Specialized accreditation focuses on programs and departments within a specific field of study. Rather than accrediting the entire institution, some accreditation agencies accredit only the departments or programs that fall within the field in which they specialize. These accreditations ensure that programs meet standards to produce graduates ready to enter their fields of study or obtain licensure/certification.

Complete listing of UTRGV specialized accreditations.

Individual program accreditations are overseen by OIA. Any reports prepared for specialized program accreditors should be submitted to the Vice Provost for Institutional Accreditation, Program Development, and Analysis, Dr. Christine Shupala for review before submission.

Though external accreditation processes vary considerably in timelines and requirements, common elements required by most accreditation agencies include:

• The preparation of a self-study report
• An online or on-site review
• The preparation of follow-up reports

Guidelines for the institutional procedures for the development, approval, monitoring, and review of specialized accreditation reports and related activity have been established by the department. For any questions or guidance on specialized accreditation, please contact Dr. Christine Shupala or Kathrin Dodds.