ASMPH & AGSB celebrate PAASCU accreditation for the MD-MBA program

The Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health (ASMPH) and the Ateneo Graduate School of Business (AGSB) are pleased to announce that their MD-MBA Program has received accreditation from the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU).

This landmark achievement is particularly significant as our MD-MBA program remains the only one of its kind in Southeast Asia, paving the way for our graduates to pursue further studies and opportunities in countries recognizing this prestigious accreditation.

The journey toward this milestone began in 2017 when ASMPH formally signified its intention for PAASCU to commence the accreditation process.  Along with the challenges of the pandemic, ASMPH submitted its comprehensive self-survey report to PAASCU on 25 August 2022, setting the stage for the Preliminary Visit on 7 to 8 November 2022. Finally, from 12 to 14 February of this year, PAASCU accreditors undertook the arduous task of thoroughly reviewing every aspect of the program. This visit marked the final phase of a comprehensive accreditation process, which involved extensive preparation and collaboration among ASMPH, AGSB, and our various stakeholders.

Key figures who welcomed the PAASCU team included Dr Maria Luz Vilches, Vice President for Higher Education; Dean Cenon Alfonso of ASMPH; Dean Jowett Magsaysay of AGSB; Dr Raymundo Baquiran, Associate Dean of ASMPH; and Mr Luisito Montalbo, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs of AGSB. They were joined by other esteemed colleagues who played crucial roles in steering the accreditation process.

The PAASCU team’s evaluation, led by Dr Susan Pelea Nagtalon, covered a broad spectrum of areas such as teaching and learning, research, school leadership, resource management, partnerships with hospitals and communities, quality assurance, risk management, and student services. Their meticulous review ensured that every aspect of our program met the highest standards of excellence.

PAASCU is a reputable organization that ensures educational institutions in the Philippines meet high standards of excellence. The PAASCU accreditation is not just a testament to our commitment to quality education but also a validation of our continuous efforts to uphold the Ignatian principles of Magis – striving to do more and be more for others. It encourages us to continue our mission of forming physician-leaders who are not only skilled in their profession but also dedicated to making a positive impact on society.

In anticipation of the final detailed report, recognition is given to all who contributed to this success – dedicated staff, administration, students, faculty, alumni, hospital and community partners, and the broader Ateneo community. Their unwavering support and hard work have been instrumental in reaching this milestone. The collective efforts embody the spirit of excellence, quality, and service that define the Ateneo way, committed to being men and women for others in every endeavor.