Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences announced today that its College of Osteopathic Medicine (PNWU-COM) has been granted full 10-year accreditation by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA), the longest accreditation cycle awarded and a distinction reserved for institutions demonstrating exceptional strength and stability.
While seven-year accreditation is the national standard for osteopathic medical schools, a 10-year determination signifies exemplary performance across all COCA standards and reinforces the high level of confidence placed in the college’s leadership, curriculum, faculty, and student outcomes.
“This achievement stands as one of the most significant milestones in PNWU’s history,” said Dr. Michael Mittelman, President of Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences.
“Far more than a formal designation, this achievement is a resounding affirmation of who we are, what we stand for, and the extraordinary work that takes place across our university every single day. While seven-year accreditation is the national standard, COCA reserves a ten-year cycle for institutions that demonstrate exceptional strength, stability, and a deep, proven commitment to excellence. Those qualities define PNWU and our COM.”
The accreditation decision follows an extensive, multi-year evaluation of the college’s performance across COCA’s comprehensive accreditation standards, including academic quality, governance, clinical training, financial integrity, student support, and mission fulfillment.
Dr. Thomas Scandalis, Dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine, emphasized that the accreditation reflects both achievement and responsibility.
“As we celebrate this historic moment, we remain mindful that our mission is ongoing,” said Dr. Scandalis.
“Throughout this accreditation process, a number of opportunities presented themselves, and with support from Dr. Mittelman and the Board of Trustees, we will continue to strengthen our curriculum, expand our clinical partnerships, support student success, and lead with compassion and accountability.”
“This distinction reflects the confidence of our accrediting body in the quality of our curriculum, the strength of our clinical partnerships, the excellence of our faculty, and the success of our students and graduates,” added President Mittelman.
“It confirms what we have long known: PNWU is preparing the next generation of compassionate, skilled providers who will improve health outcomes across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.”
With its 10-year accreditation, PNWU-COM strengthens its position as a premier medical education institution in the Pacific Northwest, celebrating over 20 years of preparing osteopathic physicians dedicated to serving rural and medically underserved communities.