Bushnell University Earns National AAQEP Accreditation of Educator Preparation Programs

EUGENE, Ore. – The Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) has awarded full 7-year accreditation to the Educator Preparation Programs at Bushnell University. 

After reviewing the evidence collected through a process of self-study and peer review, the AAQEP Accreditation Commission issued the decision at its July 26 meeting along with the following rationale: 

The Commission evaluated the program’s evidence for each AAQEP standard and determined that all four standards are met. The program prepares candidates to work effectively as professional educators who can adapt to different contexts and continue to grow professionally. Its monitoring system supports the candidates to be successful both in the program and in their future professional environments. Bushnell University maintains program quality by analyzing evidence of its effectiveness and making revisions to benefit candidates. Its partnerships with the community are well developed and support community engagement with stakeholders and partners to strengthen the P-20 education system. 

“Congratulations to Bushnell University and to all of the faculty, staff, and stakeholders who have achieved their goal of national accreditation by AAQEP,” said AAQEP President and CEO Mark LaCelle-Peterson. “The program’s careful attention to candidate progress ensures their success in the program as well as their readiness as professionals.” 

National accreditation assures the quality of professional preparation programs through a nongovernmental, nonregulatory process of self-study and peer review. This standards- and evidence-based process serves two broad aims: accountability and continuous improvement. The AAQEP model is also designed to honor local context and foster innovation and collaboration among institutions. AAQEP currently has members in 38 states and other jurisdictions with over 200 educator preparation providers participating in the accreditation system. 

Ray Ricks, M.Ed., Bushnell University’s Assistant Professor of Education and Program Director, shared his excitement about the recognition: “This accreditation reaffirms our dedication to developing future educators who are equipped to lead and inspire in today’s classroom environments. Our programs emphasize both academic rigor and practical experience, rooted in wisdom, faith, and service, ensuring that our graduates not only excel in their professions but also serve as a source of inspiration and support within their communities. We are deeply committed to fostering a sense of aspiration among our students as they begin their journeys to make meaningful contributions as educators.” 

Bushnell University offers a comprehensive range of educator preparation programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Teacher Education with specializations in Elementary Education, Secondary Education, and a variety of content areas such as Advanced Mathematics, Basic Mathematics, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), Health, Integrated Science, Language Arts, Multiple Subjects Elementary, Physical Education, Spanish, Special Education, and social studies. Graduate programs include a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), a Master of Education, and a Master of Arts in School Counseling, with certificate programs available in Physical Education, Reading Interventionist, School Counseling, Special Education, and ESOL. In addition, Bushnell provides a flexible online and evening program to accommodate working professionals and non-traditional students. 

To learn more about Bushnell’s School of Education visit www.bushnell.edu/school-of-education.