UMass Global Earns National Accreditation of Educator Preparation Program

(June 17, 2025, Aliso Viejo, California) – The Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) has awarded five-year initial accreditation to the educator preparation program at University of Massachusetts Global.

After reviewing the evidence collected through a process of self-study and peer review, the AAQEP Accreditation Commission issued the decision at its May 30 meeting along with the following rationale:

The Commission evaluated the program’s evidence for each AAQEP standard and determined that all four standards are met. The program prepares candidates to work effectively as professional educators who can adapt to different contexts and continue to grow professionally. The institution maintains program quality by analyzing evidence of its effectiveness and making revisions to benefit candidates. It engages with stakeholders and partners to strengthen the P-20 education system. The Commission reviewed the program’s plans for ongoing growth and improvement, based on the findings of the self-study, and affirms its thoughtful intention in attending to areas of improvement.

“Congratulations to University of Massachusetts Global and to all of the faculty, staff, and stakeholders who have achieved their goal of national accreditation by AAQEP,” said AAQEP President and CEO Mark LaCelle-Peterson. “The program thoughtfully approaches the way in which it seeks to improve its practices in support of its candidates.”

National accreditation assures the quality of professional preparation programs through a nongovernmental, nonregulatory process of self-study and peer review. This standards- and evidence-based process serves two broad aims: accountability and continuous improvement. The AAQEP model is also designed to honor local context and foster innovation and collaboration among institutions. AAQEP currently has members in 37 states and other jurisdictions with over 200 educator preparation providers participating in the accreditation system.

This recognition affirms that University of Massachusetts Global meets rigorous, evidence-based standards that ensure the quality and effectiveness of its teacher training and credentialing programs.

“This accreditation reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, and partners to maintaining excellence in educator preparation,” said Lori Piowlski, Dean of the UMass Global School of Education. “We’re excited to continue expanding opportunities for future educators through innovative, high-quality pathways.”