CVM receives notice of re-accreditation
During a busy day in the Joe Ann Ward Internal Medicine Critical Care Unit, resident Jillian Haines, left, works with student Caroline Davis (Class of 2014) to examine a corgi named Albert. PHOTO: Tom Thompson | College of Veterinary Medicine
Mississippi State's College of Veterinary Medicine continues to hold accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association's Council on Education.
One of just 28 veterinary colleges in the United States, the major university unit recently received the good news from the only agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and non-profit Council for Higher Education Accreditation to certify higher education training in the profession.
"I'm extremely proud of the job that Dean Kent Hoblet, his talented staff and our wonderful students at MSU-CVM are doing that led to this milestone," said MSU President Mark E. Keenum.
"Mississippians should be pleased to know that MSU is not only home to our state's only college of veterinary medicine, but one of the nation's finest colleges as well."
The council uses 11 standards to evaluate programs, including curriculum, clinical resources, finances, facilities, faculty members and research programs. The organization also assesses a college's commitment and success in carrying out its animal-care missions.
"We are certainly pleased that the COE has reaffirmed our accreditation," said Hoblet, dean of the college since 2006. The stamp of approval "is recognized internationally for reaching the highest standards," he added.
COE re-accreditation is granted for up to seven years.
Preparation for the required site visit takes approximately one year. During that time, the college must prepare a comprehensive, 100-page self-study that demonstrates how it meets all criteria and standards.
After reading the self-study, a COE team then visits the institution and, over a five-day period, reviews the standards with faculty, staff and students. Extensive tours and evaluations also are conducted.
After considering the visiting team's report, COE members vote to either continue accreditation, place the college on probation or decline to re-accredit.
"It is a long, intense process, but it really gives us a chance to evaluate our educational programs, outreach and research," Hoblet said. "We have a lot to be proud of here, and we are thankful that the COE decision affirms our belief that we have a cadre of talented faculty, staff and students."
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Karen Templeton | College of Veterinary Medicine
