Hohenheim receives AACSB accreditation: A sign of top education!

Hohenheim receives AACSB accreditation: A sign of top education!

On July 23, 2025, the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences at the University of Hohenheim in Stuttgart celebrated a significant event: receiving AACSB accreditation. This award is an excellent testament to the high quality of research and teaching at the faculty, which only a small group of educational institutions worldwide manage to maintain. In fact, only about 6% of business schools globally meet the demanding criteria of AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), which was founded in the USA in 1916. This is estimated to affect more than 16,000 business schools operating worldwide.

AACSB accreditation not only means confirmation of quality, it also opens up new opportunities for international collaborations. The AACSB seal is noted on students' diplomas, giving them additional value in the job market. In recent years, the Faculty has further developed its mission statement as well as its research and teaching profile to meet the requirements of this prestigious accreditation. This included establishing a comprehensive quality management system that exceeds German standards.

Strategic focus topics and international networking

The faculty at the University of Hohenheim specializes in strategic focus topics such as digital transformation, sustainable economy and social inequality. These topics are not only relevant for current research, but also for the future design of teaching. By receiving AACSB accreditation, the faculty has signaled that it continues to work at an international level and takes social responsibility seriously.

A central aspect of AACSB accreditation is the regular review of international standards. This process takes place every six years and ensures that the educational institution continuously adheres to its quality standards. The AACSB places particular emphasis on the strategic orientation of the program offerings, social responsibility, as well as innovative strength and international networking.

In addition to the University of Hohenheim, the International University ISM has also achieved AACSB accreditation. This represents another milestone in the German university landscape. The university president of the ISM, Prof. Dr. Ingo Böckenholt, described the accreditation as proof of excellence in research and teaching. Over the last 30 years, the ISM has built a network of around 190 partner universities worldwide, which increases its international influence.

Quality standards and global recognition

Accreditation by AACSB is tied to strict quality criteria. Among other things, course content, teaching methodology, the quality of the lecturers as well as student support and research activities are evaluated. The infrastructure, the transition to professional life and the international orientation are also taken into account in the accreditation process. Prof. Dr. Böckenholt emphasizes that the AACSB seal offers international students special added value because it is highly regarded as proof of quality. Interested parties from abroad often inquire about accreditation and international recognition of qualifications.

In summary, obtaining AACSB accreditation represents a significant step for both the University of Hohenheim and ISM. The two institutions show that they are prepared to operate successfully in a global education market and at the same time make a contribution to social responsibility. The AACSB itself conducts annual technical revisions of its accreditation materials to ensure that institutions remain abreast of academic developments, which also helps strengthen societal impact.