UAMS nursing programs receive max accreditation available 

Four University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences nursing programs have received the maximum accreditation available by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Three UAMS College of Nursing programs received 10-year accreditations — the bachelor of science in nursing, master of science in nursing and the post-master’s advanced practice certificate programs. The doctor of nursing practice, which began in 2013, received a five-year initial accreditation, which is the most a new program can receive.

“I’m extremely proud of our faculty and students,” said Patricia Cowan, College of Nursing dean. “It speaks strongly to our exemplary programs and the commitment we have from university administration and the community.”

Cowan said accreditation – a non-governmental, peer-review process – is voluntary but expected.

As part of the process, reviews are conducted of a program’s mission and governance, institutional resources, curriculum and other areas. A multi-day, on-site visit is conducted where visitors observe classroom, laboratory and clinical situations and review documents supporting a program’s overall quality.