The UNMC College of Public Health has achieved re-accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health for a full seven-year term through 2032, reaffirming its position as a leader in public health education and practice.
The achievement highlights the college’s ongoing commitment to preparing students to meet the complex health challenges of today and tomorrow while advancing its vision of healthier communities worldwide.
Re-accreditation is a rigorous process that evaluates the quality and effectiveness of academic programs in public health. The college is one of only 67 accredited schools of public health and remains the only one in the state of Nebraska.
For students, this recognition means their degrees carry the weight of a nationally accredited program, opening doors to expanded career opportunities and reinforcing the college’s reputation as a trusted leader in public health education.
“This milestone would not have been possible without the dedication and teamwork of so many. Their efforts, large and small, truly made a difference,” said Nicole Kolm Valdivia, PhD, assistant dean of academic affairs for the UNMC College of Public Health.
Since the Master of Public Health program earned accreditation in 2002 and the college achieved accreditation in 2011, the UNMC College of Public Health has long been recognized for its innovative approach to education and research.
By maintaining Council on Education for Public Health accreditation, the college continues to demonstrate its ability to adapt to evolving public health needs while equipping graduates with the skills to lead in diverse settings—from local health departments to global organizations.
“This accomplishment reinforces our standing as a globally recognized college of public health,” said Ali S. Khan, MD, MPH, dean of the UNMC College of Public Health. “As we celebrate 20 years as a college, we remain committed to building on this momentum and advancing toward our vision: the healthiest people and places worldwide.”
That vision reflects UNMC’s broader mission to improve health outcomes not only in Nebraska but across the globe, addressing pressing issues such as health disparities, environmental health, infectious disease prevention and health policy.
College leaders also consider re-accreditation a springboard for future growth. With CEPH re-accreditation secured, the UNMC College of Public Health is aiming to expand its reach, deepen its partnerships and continue shaping the future of public health education and practice.