Marcia Miller, Ph.D., Chair of the Department of Nursing
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College announces its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program recently received accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) in its initial eligibility as a new nursing program. The accreditation is retroactive to the date of the initial accreditation site visit which was conducted on January 25, 2016.
“This accreditation is a critical milestone for the College as we continue to grow our nursing program and ensure that we provide the highest quality education to our nursing students,” said Chairperson Marcia Miller, Ph.D. “I appreciate the contributions of nursing faculty and administration in accomplishing this huge endeavor during this very important process.”
CCNE is an autonomous accrediting agency, which is affiliated with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, that serves the public interest by assessing and identifying programs engaging in effective educational practices. CCNE ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate, graduate and residency programs in nursing. The accreditation process covers all aspects of a program, including support systems for students, faculty proficiency, curriculum and graduation requirements.
SMWC’s rigorous nursing program was established in March 2014 to provide the quality academic preparation and training to practice nursing at a high level. Students will be ready to integrate technology, utilize data, apply evidence-based findings, exhibit leadership abilities, communicate and collaborate effectively, and creatively plan solutions for the best patient outcomes.
Miller adds the accreditation is also important to prospective nursing students and employers.
Students are assured that the SMWC curriculum meets national standards set by the accrediting body. It also allows nursing students to be eligible to pursuing graduate nursing degrees. For prospective employers, this means a confidence in a decision to hire a potential nurse who graduated from a CCNE accredited institution.
SMWC also offers an online RN-to-BSN completion program. The courses delivered in a distance learning format builds upon a student’s previous learning experiences and clinical foundation to prepare them for leadership and change agent roles in all aspects of professional nursing practice.