myCSUSM
WSCUC Accreditation 2026
California State University San Marcos' institutional accrediting agency is the WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) Senior College and University Commission, or WSCUC. In spring 2026, representatives from WSCUC visited our campus and on June 26, 2026, the WSCUC reaffirmed CSUSM's accreditation for ten years—the longest reaffirmation period possible and one reserved for institutions demonstrating high levels of quality, effectiveness, and integrity.
The Commission specifically commended CSUSM for:
- Clarity of mission and sense of purpose as a university committed to student success and social mobility.
- Program review process, including the recent streamlining of that process to align with specialized degree accreditation processes.
- Culture of transparency in communications and inclusive, data-informed decision-making.
- Understanding of the student populations it serves, and intentionality in designing academic programs and modes of delivery to meet the needs of the community and regional workforce.
What is WSCUC?
WASC Senior College & University Commission (WSCUC) was formally created in 2012-13 when three education commissions under the umbrella of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) – Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities (ACSCU), Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC), and the Accrediting Commission for Schools (ACS) — reincorporated as separate entities. They now use the same "WASC" acronym but are three separate organizations.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges was formed in 1962 to promote the development and accreditation of higher education in the western region of the United States. Effective 2020, however, the US Department of Education removed the geographic distinction between regional and national accreditors. Now, any institution can approach any formerly regional or national accrediting agency for a review.
The Purpose of WSCUC Accreditation
The WSCUC accreditation process aids institutions in developing and sustaining effective educational programs and assures the educational community, the general public, and other organizations that an accredited institution has met high standards of quality and effectiveness.
CSUSM first received WASC accreditation in 1993. Since then, there have been five reaffirmation visits.
In spring 2026, the campus received WSCUC reaffirmation for 10 years. The next visit is scheduled for spring 2036.
Contact Regina Eisenbach or Melissa Simnitt for any accreditation-related questions.