UCM Earns National Re-Accreditation for Concurrent Enrollment Programs

The University of Central Missouri (UCM) has earned national re-accreditation from the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP), reaffirming the university’s excellence in delivering rigorous, college-level coursework to high school students through its Dual Credit Program.

 

As part of this distinction, UCM received a Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP) Endorsement, the highest standard for programs in which high school instructors teach college-level courses.

 

UCM is among just 22 colleges and universities nationwide to receive re-accreditation during the 2024-2025 review cycle. The recognition reflects UCM’s commitment to academic quality, faculty oversight and meaningful student outcomes in its concurrent enrollment offerings.

 

“I am super appreciative of the internal and external effort it took to organize and participate in the accreditation virtual campus visit, and especially to the Dual Credit Office, with whom this reaccreditation is a testament to their outstanding work,” said Laurel Hogue, vice provost for Online and Learning Engagement.

UCM’s Early College Programs allow qualified high school students to enroll in college-level courses while still completing their high school requirements. These courses are taught either by approved high school instructors or university faculty, providing students with a head start on their college degrees, often at reduced cost, and easing their transition to postsecondary education.

“We’re honored to receive national re-accreditation from NACEP, which affirms the dedication of our faculty, liaisons, staff and school partners across Missouri,” said Sandy Cruz, MBA, director of Early College Programs. “This recognition reinforces the integrity and impact of our program, ensuring students have access to rigorous, affordable college-level coursework that prepares them for success beyond high school.”

NACEP accreditation is the nation’s only standard of excellence for concurrent enrollment. The process includes a comprehensive self-study, peer review, and evaluation against 16 rigorous standards that assess course content, instructor qualifications, student support and academic integrity. Re-accreditation is valid for seven years and requires ongoing annual reporting.

 

UCM first earned NACEP accreditation in 2017 and has since expanded access to concurrent enrollment across Missouri. The university’s programs continue to support college and career readiness while building strong partnerships with school districts statewide. 

 

To learn more about UCM’s Early College Programs, visit ucmo.edu/early-college-programs.