Vivekananda Yoga University in LA receives accreditation

The University in Los Angeles has been granted candidacy status for a five-year period.

VaYU, a nonprofit established in Los Angeles, offers an online Master of Science in Yoga with specializations in therapy, philosophy, and research. / VaYU

Vivekananda Yoga University (VaYU), the first yoga-focused graduate institution outside India, has received Candidacy Accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The accreditation, valid for five years, marks a step toward full institutional recognition.

VaYU, a nonprofit established in Los Angeles, offers an online Master of Science in Yoga with specializations in therapy, philosophy, and research, along with a Ph.D. program in yoga studies. The university began offering courses in 2020.

“This recognition affirms VaYU's commitment to academic excellence, operational integrity, and the transformative power of Indian Knowledge Systems,” said professor Sree N. Sreenath, the university’s president. “Candidacy status enables VaYU to offer recognized academic programs while completing final benchmarks for full accreditation.”

Board chair Babulal Gandhi noted the speed with which the institution secured this milestone. “We at VaYU achieved this significant landmark in record time of five years from program start, with rigorous academic standards, while simultaneously delivering a great value to our students,” he said.

Provost Dr. Murali Venkatrao outlined the benefits of candidacy status. He said it provides quality assurance for the curriculum and faculty, allows easier credit transfers to other North American universities, opens up eligibility for federal student aid, and strengthens employer recognition of VaYU’s degrees. It also enables program expansion and greater international recognition.

Board member and fundraising chair Sajjan Agarwal emphasized the institution’s broader mission. “Join us in shaping the future of an accredited, Dharmic, wellness-driven 'Yoga as Medicine' education. Support VaYU's mission for us to offer rigorous, international-standard programs rooted in Indian Knowledge Systems,” he said.

VaYU acknowledged support from several organizations, including the Uma & Avadesh Agarwal Foundation, Tarsadia Foundation, Asha & Sajjan Agarwal Foundation, Bhutada Foundation, Agarwal & Gupta Foundation, and the Koppula DAF.

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