ACEN Recognition Renewed by the USDE
ATLANTA, June 1, 2023 – The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) is proud to announce that the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) has once again granted recognition to the ACEN as a specialized accreditor for nursing education programs.
On May 31, 2023, the ACEN received the decision letter from Jordan Matsudaira, Deputy Under Secretary and Chief Economist of the USDE, stating that the recognition of the ACEN was renewed for a period of five years. This decision is in line with the recommendation from the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity (NACIQI) and the recommendation from USDE staff.
The ACEN has been recognized by the USDE continuously since 1952; however, what makes this recognition decision so significant is that the ACEN was awarded the maximum number of years possible, with no follow-up for the second review period in a row. This impeccable result demonstrates that the ACEN continues to reach its goals of strengthening the quality of nursing education through the functions of accreditation.
“The ACEN is thrilled to have received this final decision regarding the recognition of the agency with the USDE. This decision validates the quality of the ACEN and its processes. Participating in the recognition process with both the USDE and CHEA provides the ACEN the opportunity to experience a review process similar to ACEN programs. Like our programs, the ACEN solicits the feedback and affirmation from other entities.” – Nell Ard, PhD, RN, CNE, ANEF, Interim CEO
USDE Scope of Recognition: The accreditation of nursing education programs and schools, both postsecondary and higher degree, which offer a certificate, diploma, or a recognized professional degree including clinical doctorate, masters, baccalaureate, associate, diploma, and practical nursing programs, including those offered via distance education. Geographic area of accrediting activities: the United States. Recognition by the USDE also allows the ACEN to act as a Title IV gatekeeper for selected nursing programs.
To learn more about the history of accreditation in the United States or about the significance of USDE recognition, please visit the Department’s website at https://www2.ed.gov/admins/finaid/accred/accreditation.html.