The CCNE and NLNAC require professional nursing programs to utilize a curriculum that implements arts, sciences and humanities. In addition, the education process must include classroom, clinical and laboratory elements. The governing bodies require that the nursing program is led by a registered nurse (RN) with a doctorate degree in nursing.
As a step to earning a nursing license, all states mandates RNs to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). State boards of nursing require students to graduate from a college or university with a program that is accredited by the CCNE or NLNAC. The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) national certification program requires candidates earn a post baccalaureate nursing degree from an approved professional nursing program.
The education mandates set forward by the CCNE and NLNAC are intended to prepare students for a prosperous career in the field. To ensure that the school meets the standard, data is collected from students, alumni and employers. Analysis of graduation rates, NCLEX-RN and certification pass rates are taken into consideration.