Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Earns SACSCOC Recognition

University receives distinction achieved by small percentage of institutions

• By Suzanna Cisneros
• June 30, 2025
• Education

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) has received a clean bill of health from the regional accrediting body, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), following a Fifth-Year Interim Review by a committee from peer institutions.

TTUHSC President Lori Rice-Spearman, Ph.D., said the five–year renewed accreditation reflects the university’s high standards, qualities that continue to attract students seeking exceptional academic experiences.

“This well-deserved recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to providing transformative, innovative and quality student outcomes that prepare them for success in a rapidly evolving world,” Rice-Spearman said. “We are proud to maintain the highest standards in academic quality and student support, and this accreditation reinforces our position as a leader in higher education.”

TTUHSC Provost and Executive Vice President of Academics Darrin D’Agostino, D.O., said the commission found TTUHSC in full compliance with all standards covered in the Fifth-Year Interim Report and requested no additional reporting — a distinction achieved by only a small percentage of institutions undergoing this rigorous process.

“This is a proud moment for our university and a reflection of the exceptional work done by our faculty, staff and students,” D’Agostino said. “To receive this level of affirmation without the need for further reporting is both rare and meaningful. It validates the strength of our academic programs, our focus on student success and our ongoing commitment to excellence.”

TTUHSC serves students across five campuses and graduates the most health care professionals in Texas. Nationally recognized for innovative programs, academic achievement and cutting-edge research, the university to date has trained 44,304 health care professionals who are serving patients and driving medical discovery in tangible, life-changing ways –– both for the 10 million people in the immediate service area and for many others around the world.

The Fifth-Year Interim Report is a critical part of maintaining accreditation with SACSCOC, the regional body that ensures colleges and universities meet high standards for educational quality, institutional integrity and student achievement. The Commission also commended TTUHSC’s execution and outcomes of its Quality Enhancement Plan, designed to improve student learning and institutional effectiveness.