THE COLLEGE of Science has obtained Level 4 accreditation, which could mean autonomy for academic programs for the next five years.
The accreditation status, granted by the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities’ Commission on Accreditation (Pacucoa), also authorizes the University to offer graduate programs related to the Level 4 courses of the college, as well as open learning or distance education and extension classes.
The Commission on Higher Education, however, remains as the authority in granting autonomy to a college or university.
The College of Science is the first college in UST to receive Level 4 accreditation from Pacucoa. It was also the first in the University to get Level 3 status in 2006.
The Varsitarian sought comment from the dean’s office and the College of Science Student Council, but they declined to give a statement “until [the college] receives the certificate.”
The accreditation procedures include consultancy visits, self-surveys, a preliminary survey visit, a formal visit, a re-accreditation survey visit, and assessments.
Accreditors examine the school’s philosophy and objectives, faculty, instruction, library, laboratories, physical plant and facilities, student services, social orientation, community involvement, and organization and administration.
Pacucoa, a private accrediting agency, gives formal recognition to a college or university by attesting that an academic program “maintains excellent standards in its educational operations, in the context of its aims and objectives.”
