Accredidation for nursing programs

A common question is how much does it cost to have an ACEN accredited program? While the answer to that question is straightforward and easily answered by reviewing the ACEN fee schedule and illustration , the more important question is what are the benefits of a nursing program being accredited with the ACEN? In the United States there are two entities that recognize accrediting agencies — the U.

Back to top. While accreditation issues may be confusing, it's best to find out before starting a nursing program if the credits and degree will be accepted by other schools, employers, and the State Board of Nursing. A little research can prevent a world of problems after graduation.

Jump to Page Section What is Accreditation? What is Accreditation? Regional Accreditation Nursing schools can be accredited regionally, nationally, or both. Visit the ACEN website for more information. Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education CCNE is a national accrediting body associated with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, providing accreditation for Bachelor's, graduate, and residency nursing programs.

Visit the CCNE website for more information. Since registered nurses have essential healthcare roles, they should receive a well-rounded education from an accredited nursing program that prepares them for hands-on experience in the medical field.

Accreditation is a valuable component of the U. According to the U. Having CCNE accreditation is what qualifies nursing programs to offer classroom education and clinical training for nursing graduate students. The CCNE evaluates and officially recognizes Bachelor of Science in Nursing , Master of Science in Nursing , and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees, as well as post-graduate nursing certificate programs and some nurse residency programs.

Earning CCNE accreditation is an essential component of opening a new nursing institution or introducing a new program at an already accredited institution. New programs must become accredited a full year before they can begin enrolling students and offering classes. After becoming accredited, maintaining CCNE accreditation is an ongoing process. If an institution offering a Master of Science in Nursing program is already CCNE accredited but launches a new program, such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program, the new program needs to be accredited, too — a process that takes at least a year.

Part of the process involves sharing program objectives, student retention rates, NCLEX-RN pass rates, and faculty qualifications in a self-study document. Each accrediting agency has its own standards, but they reflect similar factors. Standards for accreditation generally include the following:. These are just a few of the questions each standard addresses. But you can see how application of any of these criteria forces an institution to conform to rigorous academic and curriculum standards.