LEWISBURG, W.Va. – The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM) has been granted continued accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) with the next reaffirmation in 10 years. The milestone marks the culmination of a years-long effort to prepare for the commission’s review.
The commission accredited the school with no concerns, which indicates that the institution has no areas that need improvement.
As one of seven institutional accreditors in the nation, the HLC accredits about 950 colleges and universities primarily in the central portion of the U.S., in 19 states ranging as far west as Arizona and as far east as West Virginia. Besides WVSOM, 12 other osteopathic medical schools have or are seeking HLC accreditation.
James W. Nemitz, Ph.D., WVSOM’s president, said he is pleased with the commission’s findings and appreciative to the administrators, faculty and staff who helped the school meet HLC requirements.
“The Higher Learning Commission’s report shows that WVSOM is adhering to the highest standards of compliance while preparing students for careers as competent, compassionate physicians,” Nemitz said. “I’m proud of all those who have helped make this accreditation a success. A stamp of approval from a prestigious organization like the HLC will have positive implications for WVSOM for years to come.”
The comprehensive evaluation included an assurance review of arguments and evidence provided by the institution demonstrating compliance with the commission’s accreditation criteria; a student opinion survey; and an on-site review conducted by peer reviewers who are trained to evaluate how institutions apply the commission’s requirements. A final review and action, based on the site team report, was determined by an HLC decision-making body.
