2010-2012 Accreditation

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Who is leading the accreditation process at SPH?
There is an accreditation committee that includes representatives from each department, the Dean’s Office, the Office of Public Health Practice, doctoral and master student representatives, a public health practitioner, and support staff. The chair of the committee is Richard Hirth, Ph.D., Professor of Health Management and Policy.

What are the components of the self-study?
The self-study covers five main areas: 1) The School of Public Health; 2) Instructional Programs; 3) Research; 4) Faculty Staff and Students; and 5) Service. Within each area there are multiple criteria which require specific data covering 1 to 5 years. Work groups have been established to address each component of the self-study.

When is the self-study due?
We must submit a preliminary self-study in October 2011 and a final self-study in February of 2012. A working draft of the study will be completed in the summer of 2010. The draft document will be posted on the SPH website for review and comment before it is submitted.

When is the site visit and who will participate?
The site visit is scheduled for March 21 through 23, 2012. There will be 3-6 site visitors from other schools of public health and the practice community. They will meet with faculty, students, alumni and community and practice partners.

What happens after the site visit?
The school will receive a report from CEPH. We will have the opportunity to respond to the report. A final decision on accreditation will be made in the fall of 2012.

What are the possible outcomes?
The best outcome is reaccreditation for seven years with no contingencies. If not all of the CEPH criteria are met, the school could be required to submit an interim report addressing short-comings. In cases where there are significant deficiencies, schools can be given probationary accreditation or denied accreditation. We are confident that with your support and involvement, UM SPH will receive full accreditation.

What can I do to support the accreditation?
Become informed about the process, be responsive to committee members seeking data and information, proactively provide comments to the accreditation committee via this website, and participate in the site visit if requested.