Medical School Accreditation Support
The projected national shortage of physicians—estimated to exceed 124,000 by 2034—continues to place growing pressure on the U.S. healthcare system. As a result, the establishment and expansion of medical schools, particularly in underserved regions, have become critical to ensuring a sustainable physician workforce for the future.
To help meet this need, Academic Consulting Advisors offers comprehensive, strategic support to institutions navigating the rigorous accreditation process governed by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA). Our team of experts provides hands-on guidance to universities and expanding medical schools throughout each phase of the COCA pathway, helping institutions build a strong foundation for academic and operational success.
We help guide our clients through the full COCA accreditation continuum, which includes the following three formal phases; Applicant Status, Candidate Status and Pre-Accreditation Status.
Applicant Status
In the applications stage, the institution will need to submit a formal application to seek accreditation, affirming its intent to establish a college of osteopathic medicine. ACA can assist in preparing documentation that demonstrates institutional readiness, mission alignment, leadership commitment, and evaluate whether the institution has sufficient planning, resources, and infrastructure to pursue Candidate Status.
Candidate Status
The candidacy stage requires the development and submission of the Candidacy Application, which outlines detailed plans for governance, facilities, curriculum, clinical partnerships, faculty recruitment, and financial sustainability. Although institutions may not yet recruit students, this critical phase allows them to advance operational development and provide the framework and roadmap for future medical school success. ACA guides clients through application preparation, and site visit readiness.
Pre-Accreditation Status
Pre-accreditation is granted once COCA determines the institution meets the core standards necessary to operate as a medical school. Institutions are then permitted to recruit and enroll their inaugural class of students. ACA supports clients in demonstrating compliance across all domains, including faculty hiring, student services, GME planning, facilities activation, and policy implementation. At ACA, we bring experience in medical education consulting, COCA requirements, and institutional development. We are committed to walking alongside each client, offering expert insight, strategic planning, and hands-on support to ensure a successful accreditation outcome and long-term institutional success.
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