FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, July 19, 2022
STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University’s College of Business has been awarded AACSB International accreditation, a distinction enjoyed by fewer than 5 percent of business schools worldwide.
Founded in 1916, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business is the longest-serving global accrediting body for business colleges, connecting educators, students and entrepreneurs to create the next generation of leaders.
“After years of collective endeavors among students, faculty, staff and administrators, Tarleton has distinguished itself as home to one of the world’s best business schools. Earning AACSB accreditation is a tremendous honor,” said Dr. Chris Shao, Dean of the College of Business. “While cherishing this monumental accomplishment, we’re eager to embrace the challenges ahead.”
AACSB-accredited schools undergo a rigorous peer review to ensure their ability to provide a future-focused business education. During the multiyear process, schools develop and implement a plan that meets accreditation requirements.
“I commend Dr. Shao and his team for their diligence in making this elite standing a reality,” Tarleton President James Hurley said. “This prestigious accreditation proclaims an exceptional business education on the global stage. A profound honor, we will strive to deserve it every single day.”
Serving a diverse enrollment of almost 3,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Midlothian and online, Tarleton’s College of Business offers multiple undergraduate and graduate degree options, all at times convenient for working professionals.
The Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Business allows up to 33 hours of semester credit for students with associate degrees or technical, vocational or military education or experience. The BS in Applied Science with a concentration in business administration also provides credit for prior education and training. Both programs enable students to complete coursework quickly and combine real world skills with a high-quality Tarleton education to advance their careers.
Tarleton’s MBA is available 100 percent online, and the accelerated MBA can be completed in one year by taking the same coursework in a condensed format. The university also offers master’s degree programs in accountancy, human resources management and information systems.
Expert faculty from across the globe supplement classroom learning with practical experiences, international study opportunities, applied research, participation in national and regional conferences, and student competitions.
Referring to the life-changing benefits of AACSB accreditation, university Provost Dr. Diane Stearns said it will ensure that graduates earn higher, more competitive salaries. Added Stephanie M. Bryant, AACSB Executive Vice President and Chief Accreditation Officer:
“AACSB accreditation recognizes institutions that have demonstrated a focus on excellence in all areas, including teaching, research, curriculum development and student learning. We congratulate Tarleton State University and Dean Shao on earning accreditation and applaud the entire College of Businessteam — administration, faculty, staff and students — for their role in earning this respected honor.”
To learn more about Tarleton’s College of Business, go to www.tarleton.edu/cob/.
A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of nearly 17,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. True to Tarleton’s values of excellence, integrity and respect, academic programs emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.