Ohio Northern University’s baccalaureate degree program in nursing (BSN) has received a 10-year accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

To receive this distinction, the ONU program met four accreditation standards. The standards include three program quality areas: mission and governance, institutional commitment and resources, and curriculum and teaching learning practices. The fourth is a measure of program effectiveness in student performance and faculty accomplishments.

Susan Montenery, director of the ONU nursing program, said, “This national accreditation demonstrates the collaborative efforts of the University and our students, focusing on a strong commitment to excellence and quality instruction leading to positive student outcomes for our graduates. It is my privilege to work with the dedicated faculty, staff and students here at ONU.”

ONU began accepting students into its BSN program in 2005. Today, 137 students are enrolled in the ONU program. The BSN program consists of two tracks: a traditional track that leads to initial preparation as a baccalaureate-prepared registered nurse and an RN-BSN completion track for practicing registered nurses.

CCNE (www.aacn.nche.edu/ccne-accrediation) is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education as a national accreditation agency. The accreditation process is designed to ensure the quality and integrity of baccalaureate and graduate education programs in preparing effective nurses. As a voluntary, self-regulatory process, CCNE accreditation supports and encourages continuing self-assessment by nursing education programs and the continuing growth and improvement of collegiate professional education.