The Unintended Effects of AACSB’s 2003 Accreditation Standards

The AACSB recently adopted new accreditation guidelines that are less restrictive regarding what constitutes “qualified faculty” for accreditation purposes. The new standards are less restrictive, with less emphasis on a terminal degree and more on faculty being “fully participating.” However, the new standard may have a detrimental effect on the quality of collegiate business education. It may also reduce the standing and prestige of business schools within the university community. Finally, it may reduce the value of AACSB accreditation.