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Transformative at Every Level

Evidence-Based Faculty Development That Delivers Results for Students, Faculty, and Institutions

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Impact hero image piece one of teacher with students
Impact hero image piece two of teacher with students
Impact hero image piece three of teacher with students

Proven Outcomes, Lasting Impact

For over a decade, ACUE has partnered with 600+ institutions to deliver our evidence-based teaching framework that doesn’t just promise better outcomes—it delivers them. From improved student grades and retention to renewed faculty confidence and elevated institutional reputation, ACUE creates positive change that extends far beyond the classroom.

Students Thrive with ACUE-Certified Faculty

When faculty are equipped with evidence-based teaching practices, students don’t just show up—they engage deeply, persist through challenges, and develop the skills they need for career success. ACUE-certified faculty create learning environments where every student feels supported and empowered to reach their full potential.

Students taught by ACUE-certified faculty: 

+7%

Achieve up to 7% higher grades.

+13%

Black, male, and Pell-eligible students earn up to 13% higher grades.

-16%

Experience 16% fewer Ds, Fs, & Withdrawals (DFWs) on average.

Engagement That Deepens Learning 

Students report that courses taught by ACUE-certified faculty are more engaging and supportive. By using active learning, student-centered practices, and timely feedback, instructors create classrooms that spark participation, critical thinking, and lasting confidence.

Higher education instructor with students for student success

Workforce-Ready Graduates 

From classroom to career, students taught by ACUE-certified faculty gain the confidence and skills to succeed—equipped with the adaptability, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities today’s workforce requires.

Perspectives on ACUE Impact

“As a first-generation college student myself, I understand the transformative power of higher education. ACUE’s approach to faculty development directly supports what I’ve witnessed throughout my career—that excellent teaching expands opportunity. AASCU’s member institutions serve students who depend on a transformative learning experience that prepares them for their future careers, and ACUE ensures faculty have the tools to deliver that.”

Charles L. Welch, EdD
Charles L. Welch
President and CEO, AASCU

Faculty Love ACUE 

ACUE-certified instructors consistently report renewed enthusiasm for teaching, stronger peer connections, and increased confidence in their craft. ACUE’s offerings prepare educators at all stages of their career to deliver excellence in every class.

96%

of faculty refine their teaching

92%

of faculty would recommend ACUE to a colleague 

86%

of faculty complete ACUE courses

Reignite Faculty Purpose

Faculty discover fresh approaches, connect with like-minded colleagues, and experience a renewed sense of purpose that comes from seeing students engage and succeed. This restored enthusiasm transforms classrooms and teaching careers.

Faculty Success reignite faculty image of teacher in classroom
Faculty Success reengage faculty image of student and teacher in classroom

Reduce Faculty Burnout 

Our research shows that ACUE-certified faculty are 25% more confident using the evidence-based practices learned during certification. This confidence helps prevent faculty burnout by empowering them in their work, which strengthens connections with students and leads to a renewed passion for education.

Perspectives on ACUE Impact

“We set out to meet faculty where they are and strengthen their teaching pedagogy. The impact of our partnership with ACUE is clear: Students taught by ACUE-certified faculty are more engaged and achieve better outcomes. Scaling this strategy across an entire university system affirms that our students will experience excellence in every class.”

Shonda Gibson, PhD
Senior Associate Vice Chancellor and Chief Transformation Officer, The Texas A&M University System

Amplify Your Impact, Institution-Wide 

The data is clear: When institutions prepare faculty to deliver teaching excellence in every class, the benefits ripple across campus. ACUE partners see higher student retention, measurable ROI, and strengthened reputation.

+6%

Up to 6% higher first-to-second-year retention 

5x

2-5x Return on Investment (ROI) 

Scalable Solutions for Lasting Change 

ACUE provides cohesive, evidence-based courses that reach faculty across disciplines, building shared teaching excellence standards that elevate the entire academic community.

Front of a higher education building for Institutional success
Hallway of a university building for Institutional success

Lasting Change That Drives Results

ACUE certification establishes a lasting framework: faculty who implement effective teaching practices, departments that elevate instructional pedagogy, and institutions recognized for teaching excellence. The result is measurable gains in retention, satisfaction, and student outcomes.

Perspectives on ACUE Impact

“When it came to student success, we were facing big challenges with large gaps in DFW rates by Pell-status students and spotty commitment to evidence-based teaching. We launched our partnership with ACUE to equip faculty and build a sense of community. That was the start of a sea change. The more classes students take with ACUE certified faculty, the higher the GPA, greater course completion, higher pass rates and we’ve also found that quality teaching is leading to the increased retention and persistence of students at our institution—a dramatic difference.”

Amy Chasteen, PhD
Executive Vice Provost for Academic Affairs, The University of Southern Mississippi 

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