Earlier this week, the University of Nebraska received confirmation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) that its application for joint accreditation for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University of Nebraska Medical Center has met all qualifications and as such been approved by the HLC Board.
Joint accreditation of UNL and UNMC, restoring the combined accreditation that was in place before 1968, will fully align the university with its peer institutions, strengthen our national reputation, expand student opportunities and position Nebraska for greater competitiveness, while maintaining the individuality and identity of each campus. In addition, joint accreditation will create new opportunities for partnership and innovation that benefit all campuses, colleges and programs within the university system.
“This is an important step in our university’s Odyssey to the Extraordinary,” said NU President Jeffrey P. Gold, MD. “Joint accreditation paints an accurate picture of the strength and prestige of the University of Nebraska, and represents us in a way very similar to our highly regarded peers. I am very pleased to share this information.”
“HLC’s approval represents an important step toward joint accreditation and reflects the strengthening of the deep academic partnership that already exists between UNMC and UNL,” UNMC Interim Chancellor H. Dele Davies, MD, said. “While there is still more work to be done, this milestone affirms the promise of expanded collaboration, reduced silos, and increased educational and research pathways.”
Dr. Davies also reiterated that UNL and UNMC will retain their distinct missions and academic offerings. “This accreditation process is about alignment for academic excellence,” Dr. Davies explained.
“I want to thank the teams at the president’s office and both campuses who have worked so diligently throughout this process with the HLC,” he said. “Their hard work ensures our faculty, staff, students, patients and communities will continue to benefit from the highest standards of excellence as we take the next steps toward joint accreditation with our UNL partners.”