Who Sets Standards for Nursing Schools?
According to All Nursing Schools, an informational nursing education site, nursing school accreditation organizations guarantee that nursing school degree programs meet national standards for quality nursing education. These organizations set uniform standards for nursing education programs and regularly review accredited programs to ensure compliance.
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Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
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The U.S. Secretary of Education has formally recognized the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) as an approved national accreditation agency, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Bachelor's and master's degree programs in nursing fall under CCNE's purview.
National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission
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The U.S. Department of Education, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing and other organizations recognize the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) as an accrediting body for nursing education programs, according to the NLNAC. NLNAC sets standards for diploma, associate, bachelor's, master's, doctorate and practical nursing programs.
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CCNE Standards
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According to CCNE accreditation documents, there are four main standards for nursing schools to follow: three focus on program quality and one focuses on program effectiveness. CCNE standards address a nursing school's mission and governance, institutional resources, curriculum and teaching practices, and accomplishments of both students and teachers.
NLNAC Standards
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NLNAC's accreditation manual notes that there are six standards that nursing schools must follow to achieve accreditation. NLNAC evaluates nursing schools on their overall mission and administrative capacity, quality of faculty and staff, student services, curriculum, physical and financial resources, and outcomes measurement.
Review and Evaluation
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Although CCNE and NLNAC have accreditation standards that vary, both organizations regularly review and evaluate accredited nursing schools. Site visits by program evaluators allow each organization to track progress and outcomes, as well as ensure compliance with national standards.
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