LCME Accreditation

What is the LCME?

The Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) is the nationally recognized accrediting authority for medical education programs leading to the M.D. degree in the U.S. (and Canada). The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and the Council on Medical Education of the American Medical Association (AMA) are jointly represented on the LCME. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes the LCME as the accrediting body for programs of medical education in the U.S.

Why is LCME accreditation important?

LCME accreditation is required in most states for licensing graduates and receiving federal financial aid. Only graduates of LCME-accredited schools are eligible for residency programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) purposes. Accreditation by the LCME establishes eligibility for selected federal grants and programs, including Title VII funding administered by the U.S. Public Health Service. Additionally, graduates of LCME-accredited schools are eligible for residency programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). DGSOM was first accredited by the LCME in 1951.

The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA (DGSOM) and LCME Accreditation

DGSOM received full accreditation by the LCME following their 2021 full accreditation survey visit. The survey visit is a peer-reviewed process of quality assurance that determines whether an institution’s program and medical school meet nationally established standards, outlined in the Functions and Structure of a Medical School. The almost two-year self-study process includes our entire educational community — faculty, residents, staff, and students — whom provide valuable reflection on our strengths and important feedback on how we can continue to improve as a medical school. DGSOM will have their next full accreditation survey visit during the 2028-29 academic year. 

To verify the LCME accreditation status for DGSOM, visit the LCME's website.

Contact information for the LCME/LCME Secretariat can also be found on this LCME website.