College of Health and Human Services Progresses Toward Goal of School of Public Health Designation
The Council on Education for Public Health has granted approval for UNC Charlotte’s College of Health and Human Services to advance to the self-study phase of the accreditation process for recognition as a School of Public Health.
“Our commitment to serve as the region’s public research university demands that we leverage our resources to maximize positive outcomes for our local, regional and global community,” said Jennifer Troyer, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. “Accreditation as a School of Public Health recognizes our comprehensive offerings of high quality public health programs and supports additional career pathways for our students as the next generation of health and human service leaders.”
Image: Council on Education for Public Health
Life sciences is among the top five industries in the region, according to the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance. More than 22,000 individuals work in life-sciences-related industries with biopharmaceuticals and biotech as the two fastest -growing sectors.
“Our college has a long-standing history of supporting the city of Charlotte specifically in health and human services, “said Catrine Tudor-Locke, dean. “Becoming an accredited School of Public Health will enable us to deepen our community connections, expand our research capabilities and boost the health professional pipeline to meet the needs of the ever-evolving industry.”
Currently, within CHHS, there are two departments and two schools offering six undergraduate degrees and 19 graduate degrees; several of these degree programs are nationally ranked. As part of the self-study phase, faculty and staff will assess and evaluate curricula, operations, and resources while soliciting feedback from constituent stakeholders. During the next 18-24 months, faculty will work to optimize resources, organizational structures and adjust curriculum in preparation for the accreditation review and subsequent site visit. College leaders anticipate final approval in 2026.