Pacific Oaks College Receives 10-Year Accreditation Reaffirmation

Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena has been granted a 10-year reaffirmation of accreditation by the WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) Senior College and University Commission. 

The Accreditation Visit, a crucial part of the accreditation process for schools, took place from Feb. 21 to 23 this year. 

In a statement posted on Pacific Oaks College’s Facebook page in Monday, Aug. 12, the college expressed pride in the achievement, saying it “reinforces the quality of our programs and our commitment to preparing our students with the knowledge, skills, and training needed to contribute to their diverse fields of interest.” 

The commission’s letter, dated July 18, 2024, highlighted several commendations for the institution. These included its “strong mission grounded in its social justice heritage” and its “layered approach to student support” exemplified by a new student success center.

Notably, the commission praised Pacific Oaks for its rapid financial turnaround “in a complex higher education environment,” as evidenced by a stable U.S. Department of Education Financial Responsibility Score and the introduction of successful new programs, the commission said.

The college, which offers bachelor’s and master’s programs in fields such as social work and education, was first accredited in 1959. It currently serves 136 undergraduate and 290 graduate full-time equivalent students. Pacific Oaks operates on a semester system and distributes federal financial aid.

Pacific Oaks’ unique pedagogical approach emphasizes experiential learning. On its website, the college says “everyone in our classrooms is both student and teacher,” with students relating subjects to personal experiences and sharing with peers.

The commission’s action letter also outlined areas for development. These included proceeding with a new strategic plan, improving analysis of student outcomes data, and expanding faculty support for research and community relationships.

Dr. Breeda McGrath, Pacific Oaks College President, participated in discussions with the commission, along with other college officials including the Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of Students. The next reaffirmation review is scheduled for 2033-2034.

Pacific Oaks College is part of a multi-institution system and is located at 45 W. Eureka Street in Pasadena.

To learn more about the college, visit https://www.pacificoaks.edu/.