The Eastern Washington University (EWU) School of Business is one of less than 6% of schools worldwide to receive accreditation from AACSB International, the most globally recognized accrediting body for business education programs. While AACSB accreditation demonstrates the quality of any type of MBA program, it shows prospective students and employers worldwide that an international business program — like EWU’s online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with an International Business Concentration — prepares graduates to excel in the global business environment. In fact, graduates of AACSB-accredited schools are sought by top global organizations that only recruit from AACSB-accredited schools.
Why is this? Uniquely, in transitioning to AACSB International, the long-standing business school accrediting body has put global business at the forefront of its efforts to improve business education. The organization’s standards have a global focus: there are 1,004 accredited business schools worldwide as of August 2023, and AACSB membership spans 100+ countries. Consequently, the accreditation is highly respected and provides students and schools with a global business education network — an important benefit for graduates of an international business MBA.
What Is AACSB Accreditation and Why Does It Matter?
AACSB accreditation is the hallmark of excellence in business education, signifying a commitment to producing graduates with the skills and knowledge employers seek. Recognized globally, AACSB-accredited schools are considered the crème de la crème. They showcase rigorous standards met across undergraduate, master’s, doctoral and executive education programs. This prestigious accreditation attests to the institution’s superior faculty, high-achieving students, international diversity and active employer engagement.
The accreditation process demands adherence to evolving standards that cover program quality, faculty qualifications, student success metrics, international diversity and ongoing employer interactions. Institutions with AACSB accreditation undergo regular self-evaluations and external reviews to ensure continuous compliance with these high standards. Key benchmarks — including strategic management and innovation and academic and professional engagement — certify that accredited schools are not just meeting but exceeding the demands of a rapidly changing business landscape.
The impact of AACSB accreditation extends beyond academics. It influences the entire landscape of business education. For students, an AACSB-accredited program signifies a commitment to their development, with schools actively seeking feedback and continuously improving their curriculum and practices. This commitment enhances the student experience and attracts more candidates to the program, bolstering its reputation. The global recognition attached to AACSB accreditation opens doors for graduates, providing access to industry professionals and international study programs, fostering a global mindset crucial for addressing international business challenges.
In addition, AACSB-accredited programs maintain a commitment to a high-quality business curriculum, adhering to stringent educational standards. Continuous improvements ensure the curriculum remains dynamic, addressing emerging trends in business education. By promoting active engagement, these programs empower students to develop leadership skills and collaborate effectively, preparing them for career success.
Why Is AACSB Accreditation so Pertinent to International Business Study?
For programs focused on international business, the accreditation is a robust assurance of the curriculum’s quality and alignment with the vigorous demands of the international marketplace. AACSB-accredited institutions emphasize not only the foundational principles of business but also the intricacies of global markets, cultural nuances and cross-border collaborations.
This accreditation ensures that students pursuing an international business MBA receive a comprehensive education that prepares them to competently navigate global business complexities. As international business increasingly becomes the norm, AACSB accreditation guides students toward programs that meet and exceed global standards.
How Does ISO 9001:2015 Certification Demonstrate the Quality and Reputation of AACSB Accreditation?
AACSB’s commitment to the highest standards is evidenced by its attainment of ISO 9001:2015 certification for its accreditation quality management system across global offices. This prestigious certification highlights AACSB’s dedication to delivering innovative, high-quality and customer-focused accreditation services on a global scale. By achieving ISO 9001:2015 certification, AACSB showcases its alignment with a universal, globalized business standard, reinforcing the organization’s position as a leader in business education.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is pivotal in establishing voluntary, consensus-based standards that promote innovation and address global challenges. With over 1.1 million certifications issued across 178 countries, ISO 9001:2015 stands out as the most widely used quality management systems requirement.
AACSB’s decision to pursue this certification aligns seamlessly with its commitment to ongoing process improvement, quality assurance and a customer-focused approach. Notably, AACSB earned commendations during the ISO 9001:2015 process for leadership involvement, well-defined processes, robust IT infrastructure support and an effective internal audit program.
Pursuing AACSB program accreditation by the world’s top business schools underscores a commitment to providing a high-caliber education. Prospective candidates can find confidence in the globally recognized standards AACSB sets, positioning them for success. Opting for an accredited MBA program like EWU’s ensures a broadly respected education that develops the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the ever-evolving field of international business.
Learn more about EWU’s online MBA with an International Business Concentration program.
