Supporting Excellence in Higher Education Through Accreditation

Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC, “the Commission”), a regional accrediting agency that serves a diverse membership of public and private higher education institutions throughout California, Hawaii, and the Pacific, as well as a limited number of institutions outside the U.S. Through its work of peer review, based on standards, agreed to by the membership, the Commission encourages continuous institutional improvement and assures the membership and its constituencies, including the public, that accredited institutions are fulfilling their missions in service to their students and the public good.

The Commission is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as certifying institutional eligibility for federal funding in a number of programs, including student access to federal financial aid.

Reaffirming Accreditation

Accreditation is periodically reaffirmed through a comprehensive review process that includes an institutional self-study that results in a comprehensive Institutional Report, an external review by colleagues from peer institutions, and a site visit at least once every 10 years.

Following their April 22, 2022, visit, WSCUC issued the sanction of Warning, directing APU to further support its operations and educational objectives through greater improvement in human, physical, fiscal, technological, and information resources, and through more effective organizational and decision-making structures. These will lead to achievement of institutional purposes and educational objectives and create a high-quality environment for learning. Under the guidance of President Adam J. Morris, PhD, and the newly formed accreditation task force, APU will address the concerns identified in the letter from WSCUC by the time WSCUC conducts its reevaluation in two years. Through dedication, collaboration, and innovation, APU will chart a successful course forward.

Additional Accreditations

In addition to WSCUC accreditation, APU holds several other discipline-focused accreditations across its schools and colleges. View the full list of APU’s accreditations.

Why Accreditation Matters

Learn more about the benefits of attending an accredited school and how it demonstrates a college’s commitment to offering students the best academic experience possible.