The University of New Mexico

NEWS RELEASE

Department of Communication & Journalism at the University of New Mexico Earns Accreditation

The Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC) has unanimously approved the accreditation of the journalism and mass communication programs in the Department of Communication & Journalism at the University of New Mexico.

“We are elated with the decision of the Accrediting Council,” stated John Oetzel, department chair. “They found us in complete compliance with all of the standards validating the excellent work of the faculty and department.

“We are pleased to state that our journalism and mass communication programs are now accredited. We look forward to working with students, the university, community, and media organizations to continue this excellence and further strengthen our program.”

As part of the accreditation process, an ACEJMC site team visited the Department of Communication & Journalism Department earlier this year in January. The council found the department in compliance with each of the nine standards of the ACEJMC including: Mission, Governance and Administration, Curriculum and Instruction, Diversity and Inclusiveness, Full-Time and Part-Time Faculty, Scholarship: Research, Creative and Professional Activity, Student Services, Resources, Facilities and Equipment, Professional and Public Service and Assessment of Learning Outcomes

“I am delighted that our programs in journalism and mass communication are now accredited,” said Brenda Claiborne, dean, College of Arts and Sciences. “The Communication and Journalism faculty worked diligently over several years to achieve this distinction. They carefully evaluated the curriculum, used assessment findings to strengthen the programs, and worked with community and media organizations to enhance opportunities for students. The faculty members are to be commended for their outstanding teaching, research and service.”

For more information on the accreditation, contact Oetzel at (505) 277-5305 or via email joetzel@unm.edu.

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