CSUCI gets accreditation
By Michelle Knight knight@theacorn.com

Two local universities made the grade last month.

On Tues., July 17 California State University Channel Islands received initial accreditation- official recognition by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges that the educational programs are effective and meet academic standards.

The accreditation for the Camarillo university is retroactive to May 19- graduation day of the first freshman class and the earliest date the school is eligible- through 2014.

"I'm delighted with the outstanding work of the faculty and staff in achieving the milestone of accreditation," CSUCI President Richard Rush said. "We received the maximum period of accreditation available while accomplishing it at the earliest possible date."

The regional agency also on Tuesday renewed sevenyear accreditation for Cal Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks.

Associate Provost Leanne Neilson said accreditation standards and procedures are more arduous than they were in the mid-1990s- the last time the school's accreditation was renewed.

"It's really a stamp of approval that shows we offer an excellent academic program," Neilson said. "We're thrilled."

The team of reviewers gave words of praise for both schools.

They noted CSUCI for combining academic disciplines in the curricula, involving the community and renovating historic buildings into an appealing campus.

The report also commended CSUCI for learning practices that put it "far ahead of many much older and betterestablished universities within CSU, the state and nation."

CLU was recognized for increasing diversity in curricula and student, faculty and staff populations, offering quality graduate programs and increasing faculty pay. The Thousand Oaks university was also distinguished for its Festival of Scholars program and Center for Equality and Justice.

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges is one of six agencies across the country that evaluate public and private colleges offering baccalaureate degrees and higher.

Colleges and universities are not required to operate under accreditation, but students attending an accredited school are eligible for government financial aid and able to transfer credits to another school.