Understanding Business School Accreditation: AACSB and ACBSP Explained

When exploring business degree programs, it is important to understand programmatic accreditation and how it influences your educational experience. In the field of business education, two primary accrediting organizations—the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)—help ensure that business programs meet established standards of quality and continuous improvement.

Institutional vs. Programmatic Accreditation

Before reviewing programmatic accreditation, it's essential to confirm that a college or university holds institutional accreditation. This type of accreditation verifies that the entire institution—including its departments, faculty, and curricula—has been evaluated by a recognized institutional accrediting agency.

In addition to institutional accreditation, some universities pursue programmatic accreditation, which focuses on specific programs within the institution. Choosing a business program with programmatic accreditation demonstrates that the program aligns with academic quality standards designated by an independent accrediting body.

ACBSP and AACSB Accreditation: Key Distinctions

AACSB and ACBSP represent two respected accrediting bodies in the business education community, each with distinct areas of emphasis.

• ACBSP assesses whether business programs deliver a strong educational experience and demonstrate a sustained commitment to continuous quality improvement. Its accreditation process, modeled on the Baldridge Education Criteria for Performance Excellence, is designed to help institutions identify strengths, gaps, and enhance overall program effectiveness. It offers accreditation to all levels of collegiate business educational degree programs from associate to doctoral ¹
• AACSB focuses on academic excellence, relevance, and ongoing innovation in business education. Its standards ensure that accredited schools provide a challenging and globally relevant learning environment while engaging stakeholders and continuously evolving to meet the needs of the business world. It offers accreditation to Bachelot's and post-bachelor's degree programs.²

These processes encourage institutions to foster strong connections within their local and professional communities, promote continual program development, and maintain relevance with current business practices. Understanding these distinctions can help prospective students choose a program aligned with their professional and academic objectives.

At AIU, the business administration degree programs are programmatically accredited by ACBSP. American InterContinental University is a member of the American InterContinental University System. The System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

To learn more, you can explore accredited business degree programs at American InterContinental University and determine which path best supports your academic growth and career path aspirations.

¹ Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). "Our Mission." https://acbsp.org/page /about-who-we-are (visited on 10/20/2025).
² Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). "Value of AACSB Accreditation." https://www.aacsb.edu/-/media/documents/accreditation/value-of-accreditation/value-of-aacsb-accreditation.pdf (visited on 10/20/2025).

AIU cannot guarantee employment, salary, or career advancement. Not all programs are available to residents of all states.
REQ2169726 10/2025