SAN LUIS OBISPO — The Cal Poly Graphic Communication Department has been re-accredited for another six-year cycle after a unanimous vote by the Accrediting Council for Collegiate Graphic Communications (ACCGC). The department has been accredited since the ACCGC’s inception in 1998.

“Accreditation is extremely important. The process of going through a self-study and having academic and industry professionals vet your program ensures that what we are teaching to the future leaders of the industry is relevant,” Graphic Communication Department Chair Colleen Twomey said. “Accreditation matters to employers who can be assured that the skills and problem-solving techniques our students are learning enable these graduates to contribute to the industry immediately. This process recognizes that Cal Poly is a top tier school to study graphic communication.”

The accrediting process included a self-study — a yearlong examination of curriculum, assessment, laboratory work and faculty research — which was provided to a team of two universities and an industry representative. The team visited campus to observe classes and coursework, speak with students and advisory board members and converse with alumni. Interviews with the College of Liberal Arts Dean’s Office and the Cal Poly Office of the Provost were also conducted.

According to the ACCGC, the purpose of accrediting graphic communication programs is threefold: assuring curricular and instructional relevancy within a system of quality improvement; stimulating the exchange of ideas between academia and industry; and providing internal and external recognition to collegiate programs meeting accreditation standards.

The 15 rigorous standards for accreditation and compliance that were reviewed include:

· Program mission.

· Learning outcomes.

· Program and administrative leadership.

· Financial support.

· Available equipment and facilities.

· Support services.

· Overall curriculum.

· Teaching quality of faculty.

· Industry experiences for students.

· Industry advisory board assistance.

· Academic preparation of faculty.

· Faculty evaluation process.

· Records kept and advisory assistance to students.

· Career placement services.

· Diversity, equity and inclusion within the program.

Cal Poly is one of eight accredited programs in the United States that offer curricula in graphic communication.