If you are a prospective student looking for the the right nursing school, you should become familiar with the various accrediting organizations. These groups, which range in background and mission, are your source for finding schools that meet national standards in education and allow graduates to sit for the NCLEX exam.
Of these accrediting organizations, one of the most important is the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. This national organization is devoted to promoting excellence in nursing education. The organization looks at individual nursing instructors, providing opportunities for them to build their skills and network with others in the field, as well as offers accreditation for NCLEX readiness.
What Does the NLNAC Do?
The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) is responsible for accrediting specialized nursing education programs, including:
- Clinical Doctorates
- Master’s Programs
- Bachelor’s Programs
- Associate Programs
- Nursing Diplomas
- Practical Nursing Programs
In this capacity, the NLNAC is a great source for finding programs that will train nurses to sit for the NCLEX exam and to enter the field of nursing once they successfully graduate and get licensed.
NLNAC is also important in ensuring that nursing schools are eligible to receive federal funding via student grants or loans; for example, unless a nursing program is recognized by the NLNAC or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, you may not be able to use FAFSA to help pay for your education.
The NLNAC goes one step further, as well, by offering assistance to students beyond the financial level. Schools can turn to the NLNAC for help with student counseling and recruitment, while students can learn more about transferring their credits from one school to another.
Why NLNAC Accreditation Matters
The primary difference between the NLNAC and other accrediting bodies is that the NLNAC is more comprehensive when it comes to LPN, Diploma, and Certificate programs. It is the primary seal of approval for these lower-level nursing degrees, and you should always look for it if you are considering a degree at the Associate or Diploma level.
If you are considering a higher-level nursing program, it isn’t necessary for the NLNAC to be involved, but you should look for other accrediting credentials (especially the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) to be sure it meets the national requirements for nursing education.
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1 comment
Bennie Moncrease
October 26, 2012 at 9:13 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Why would the NLNAC site visitors want to meet with nursing students without faculty or staff of the nursing program.