The Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration (ACPHA) has once again granted accreditation to Missouri State University’s hospitality leadership program with no conditions. This is rare.  

Missouri State is the only ACPHA accredited program in Missouri. Hospitality leadership has held this distinction since 1993.  

About the accreditation process 

The accreditation process requires three steps. This includes a self-review completed by faculty. After that, there is an external review of the program conducted by faculty not from Missouri State and a final review and decision by the ACPHA Commission. 

There are nine standards that hospitality programs need to meet to receive accreditation. 

• Mission and outcomes 
• Administration and governance 
• Planning 
• Assurance of student learning 
• Curriculum 
• Instructional resources 
• Student support services 
• Physical and learning resources 
• Financial resources 

The accreditation process happens every seven years.  

Why this is important 

Part of the review process includes approving the curriculum, ensuring is it relevant and up to date.  

Students in the hospitality program know that they are getting a good value. With the rigorous standards set forth, accreditation validates the program quality.  

ACPHA also requires programs to report job placement rates. 

“Our department works extensively to place our students in professional positions upon graduation,” said Dr. Stephanie Hein, department head of hospitality leadership. “We view this as one of our strengths.” 

ACPHA personnel 

In addition to being reviewed by ACPHA, several faculty from MSU, including Hein, act as reviewers for other sites. They have participated in over 20 on-site reviews here and abroad.  

Hein is also a member of the 12-person ACPHA commission and will soon start her two-year term as chair.  

Congratulations!