PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) announced Friday that it will withdraw accreditation from University of the Arts effective June 1. This decision comes after the university failed to properly notify MSCHE of its impending and unanticipated closure. .
University of the Arts is now the second Philadelphia art school to close this year, after Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (PAFA)which announced its closure at the end of the 2024-25 academic year.
MSCHE has decided to revoke the institute’s accreditation because it failed to comply with the Commission’s requests for written reports, teaching plans and more.
The University of the Arts must now notify the university community, including students, staff and members of the governing board, of the status of the institution.
The institution is also required to manage student and alumni records, as well as provide free transcripts to those who wish to transfer.
UArts posted on Facebook Friday evening saying:
“It’s a heartbreaking day.
The University of the Arts will close its doors on Friday June 7, 2024.
On Monday June, we will host separate town hall meetings for students, faculty and staff; We will send out schedules and details for these public meetings over the coming weekend. We are committed to providing a space for your questions and concerns.
The university is still expected to submit a comprehensive education plan by June 7 to ensure students can complete their studies. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in further action by MSCHE.
MSCHE highlighted several areas of non-compliance, including issues related to the university’s financial viability, educational effectiveness, and student learning experience.
Pennsylvania State Representative Ben Waxman posted about the university’s closure on X.
Devastated to hear about UArts closing. This abrupt decision will impact hundreds of people in our community who work and study at UArts. We will demand answers to the events that led to this shocking and sudden decision. Our office is here to support all students…
— Rep. Ben Waxman (@RepBenWaxman) May 31, 2024
The commission also highlighted the university’s insufficient communication and inability to obtain necessary permits for its planned closure.
The University of the Arts may appeal the decision through the Commission’s Adverse Action Appeal procedures before June 7.