The GTU’s reaccreditation review by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Association of Theological Schools took place in two stages: a Preparatory Review focusing on institutional capacity in fall 2005, and an Educational Effectiveness Review focusing on student learning in spring 2007.

As anyone who has been through an accreditation process knows, it takes a lot of work on the part of many, many people throughout the institution. But it also gives us a chance to make the GTU a better school—more faithful to our mission, and more effective in our teaching and learning. Many thanks to everyone who helped with this process!

During the Educational Effectiveness phase, we carried out rigorous research-based studies of four specific topics that emerged from a consensus of students, faculty, staff, and trustees. In each case, the inquiry was intended to lead to the formulation of action steps and the identification of measurable outcomes. Note that all four of these topics directly engage issues of student learning. The questions we formulated to guide our investigations were as follows:

• How effective are the academic programs of the GTU in preparing scholars and teachers of theology and religious studies for leadership in a pluralistic world of ecumenical, interreligious, and multicultural diversity?
• How effective is the GTU in stimulating and supporting interdisciplinary scholarship in the various areas of theology and religious studies?
• How effective is the GTU in providing our graduates with the commitment and skills they need in order to be a public voice for theology in relation to the great issues of our day?
• How effective is the GTU in the professional development of our students through faculty mentoring and programs of teacher preparation?

These four themes represent commitments that are deeply held throughout the GTU, so they are indicative of our distinctive mission.  A lot of work lies ahead for us as we implement the many recommendations generated by our own research teams and the accrediting agencies. But it is the kind of work that is worth doing because it will help us make the GTU a better school.
—GTU Dean Arthur Holder, Accreditation Liaison Officer

Related documents:

Institutional Proposal

Capacity and Preparatory Review Report

WASC/ATS Visiting Team Report on Capacity Review

WASC Accrediting Commission Action Letter

Educational Effectiveness Review Report

WASC/ATS Visiting Team Report on Educational Effectiveness

WASC Accrediting Standards and Process

ATS Accreditation