July 8, 2025

Two signature programs recently were reaccredited by their national review agencies, signaling a seal of approval and expertise for Columbus State University’s business and theatre programs.

These voluntary, peer-reviewed processes provide students, parents and future employers with assurances that the coursework, fieldwork, internships and other factors comprising a student’s “college experience” meet rigorous quality standards.  

For business schools like the Turner College of Business & Technology, AACSB accreditation underscores how the process ensures a quality education experience for students.  AACSB accreditation is recognized worldwide as the highest standard of quality, with only 6 percent of the world’s leading business schools achieving AACSB accreditation.

“The standards for teaching and student success are consistent for all AACSB-accredited institutions,” Dr. Deborah Kidder, Turner College dean and Bill Heard Endowed Chair of Business Administration, said of the college’s extended AACSB accreditation. “This ensures that the business degrees we award our graduates equip them for career success and are comparable in quality to our peers.” 

The Department of Theatre and Dance received their accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Theater (NAST), which provides confidence that the education received is valuable and prepares graduates for their chosen careers or further academic pursuits, said Larry Dooley, chair of CSU’s theater department.

“The accreditation process itself is quite intense,” Dooley said. “We provided detailed information on facilities, equipment, technology, curriculum, faculty qualifications, students endeavor, and just about any and all aspects of the program. CSU's Department of Theatre and Dance completed this process and was granted full accreditations for all aspects of its program in spring 2025. “
At least two other programs will hear about their reaccreditation status this fall.

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Media contact: John Lester, Chief Engagement Officer/Vice President of External Affairs, 706.507.8725, lester_john@columbusstate.edu