Following an extensive and rigorous review process, the Council on Education for Public Health has awarded the UTMB School of Public and Population Health its full, five-year accreditation, effective as of December 20.
“This is a momentous occasion,” said Dr. M. Kristen Peek, senior vice president and dean of the School of Public and Population Health. “We are extremely proud we can now say that UTMB is home to a school united, officially, with the vision of Health Equity For All.”
The Council on Education for Public Health is an independent agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit schools of public health, and public health programs that operate outside of schools of public health.
With the assistance of the educational leadership team, Dr. Cara Pennel, associate professor and associate dean for Academic Affairs with the School of Public and Population Health, spearheaded the efforts of the self-study that took place over the last two years.
The UTMB School of Public and Population Health, which formed in 2021, is now the second UT System school of public health to be accredited. An accreditation by the Council on Education for Public Health is important because it ensures the interests of students and the public are protected, and graduating from such a program or institution enhances employability, as many employers prefer degrees from these institutions. The accomplishment also improves overall national reputation and caliber of students, thus opening doors to other potential certifications and funding opportunities.
“Thank you to all who have contributed to the school’s success: our students, alumni, faculty, staff, community partners and university leadership,” said Dr. Charles P. Mouton, executive vice president, provost and dean of the John Sealy School of Medicine. “The Council on Education for Public Health site visitors were greatly impressed by the team’s efforts, leading to the excellent report we received.”