CMU’s commitment to mission, values and excellence in business education recognized on a global stage
GRAND JUNCTION, Colorado — Colorado Mesa University’s Davis School of Business has officially earned AACSB International accreditation, marking a significant milestone in CMU’s mission to deliver a values-based, future-focused business education. With this achievement, CMU joins an elite group of business schools worldwide — with less than 6% of institutions holding this prestigious distinction.
Founded in 1916, AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) is the longest-serving global accrediting body for business schools, recognizing institutions that demonstrate excellence in teaching, research, curriculum development and student success.
"At CMU, we believe in creating opportunities for a better life through education, and this accreditation reaffirms the quality, relevance and impact of our business programs,” said CMU President John Marshall. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our faculty, the hard work of our students and the commitment of our entire university to delivering an education that is both rigorous and deeply connected to the real-world.”
Raising the Bar for Business Education
Earning AACSB accreditation reflects CMU’s focus on academic excellence, industry relevance and student success. The rigorous accreditation process ensures that CMU’s Davis School of Business meets the highest standards in business education, preparing students to become innovators, entrepreneurs and ethical leaders in an evolving global economy.
“This accreditation reflects the relentless commitment of our faculty, staff and students to elevating business education at CMU,” said Interim Academic Department Head of the Davis School of Business Suzanne Owens-Ott. “It validates our hands-on, industry-driven approach and reaffirms our promise to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.”
With AACSB accreditation, CMU continues to expand its human-scale, values-driven approach to education, blending academic rigor with real-world application. Through partnerships with businesses, experiential learning opportunities, and a focus on leadership, ethics, and innovation, the Davis School of Business is shaping the next generation of business leaders—rooted in Western Colorado’s spirit and CMU’s values and mission.
About the Davis School of Business at CMU
The Davis School of Business at Colorado Mesa University prepares students for dynamic careers through relevant, hands-on education. Offering undergraduate and graduate programs in accounting, finance, marketing, management and entrepreneurship, the school emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership and real-world business applications. With small class sizes, faculty mentorship and strong industry connections, CMU ensures that students graduate with both the knowledge and experience to succeed.
About Colorado Mesa University
Located in the heart of Western Colorado, Colorado Mesa University is a Human Scale University committed to affordable, accessible and transformative education. With a focus on intellectual freedom, relevant programming, and real-world impact, CMU empowers students to think critically, embrace challenges, and lead in their fields.
For more information on CMU’s business programs and AACSB accreditation, visit the Davis School of Business webpage.