University of Guelph’s Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics has joined the ranks of some of the world’s top business schools by achieving accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB).
Founded in 1916, AACSB is widely considered one of the world’s most prestigious accreditations, which fewer than six per cent of the world’s business schools have earned. It is also the largest business education network connecting students, educators, and businesses worldwide.
“This distinguished international accreditation speaks to the exceptional quality of the Lang School’s educational programming,” said Dr. Charlotte Yates, U of G president. “With a focus on sustainability, ethical practices, community and entrepreneurship, the Lang School provides students with a forward-thinking education. Through a focus on how business can be a force for good in the world, Lang is truly improving life.”
AACSB accreditation provides a framework of 15 international standards against which business schools around the world assess the quality of their educational services. These standards ensure continuous improvement and provide focus for schools to deliver on their mission, innovate and drive impact.
To achieve accreditation, Lang underwent a rigorous review process conducted by their peers in the business school community, ensuring they have the resources and commitment needed to provide students with a first-rate, future-focused business education.
“Earning accreditation from AACSB is a significant step forward for the Lang School and reflects the dedication of our world-class faculty and professional staff,” said dean Lysa Porth. “This accreditation will enhance opportunities for research partnerships, academic collaborations, and international networking and validates our extensive work in creating an engaging and transformational learning environment for our students.”
The Lang School is long respected for its focus on responsible business education and creating exceptional, applied learning opportunities for its students. In 2020, the Lang MBA program in Sustainable Commerce was ranked number one in Canada and its BComm program was ranked number two by the Corporate Knights.
“AACSB accreditation recognizes institutions that have demonstrated a focus on excellence in all areas, including teaching, research, curriculum development, and student learning,” said Stephanie M. Bryant, executive vice president and chief accreditation officer of AACSB. “We congratulate University of Guelph and dean Lysa Porth on earning accreditation and applaud the entire Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics team—including the administration, faculty, staff, and students—for their roles in earning this respected honor.”
“Today’s students are tomorrow’s business leaders, and the addition of Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics to the network of AACSB-accredited business schools will have a lasting positive impact for their institution, both locally and globally,” added Bryant.