The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education has granted continuation of accreditation to the Master of Science in Nursing program at the University of Arkansas for 10 years.

The commission notified the nursing school last month of the new accreditation term, which is retroactive to a site visit by the accrediting body last September.

The master’s program graduated its first class in 2007. It started with one emphasis on clinical nurse specialists and now offers a second concentration in nurse education. The program offered online through the university’s Global Campus includes a clinical practice requirement that can be completed where the student lives.

“It’s very important that we undergo the accrediting process to ensure that our graduates are prepared to the highest level possible,” said Pegge Bell, director of the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing. “Accreditation tells prospective students, staff and faculty members as well as professionals in the health fields and the public that we uphold high-quality standards necessary to provide the best possible nursing care.”

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education is an autonomous accrediting agency that reviews the quality and integrity of baccalaureate, graduate and residency programs in nursing. Accreditation by the commission supports and encourages continuing self-assessment by nursing programs and supports continuing growth and improvement of collegiate professional education and post-baccalaureate nurse residency programs.

More information about the master’s program and other degrees offered by the nursing school is available on the school’s website.