Accreditor Warns Columbia University Over Ethics, Accreditation Risk

Columbia University has received a warning from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) that its accreditation may be in jeopardy due to insufficient evidence of compliance with ethics and integrity standards. The commission's concerns focus on whether Columbia fosters a respectful campus climate, maintains an effective campus safety plan, and complies with all applicable laws, including federal civil rights regulations. This action follows a Department of Education investigation triggered by reports that Columbia failed to adequately address antisemitic incidents and protests on campus after Hamas' attack on Israel in October 2023. Columbia has until November 3 to submit a monitoring report demonstrating its compliance, while it remains accredited pending further review. The university expressed confidence in addressing the cited issues and reaffirmed its commitment to combating antisemitism and ensuring a safe and inclusive environment. MSCHE will consider Columbia's accreditation status at a March 2026 meeting.