For aspiring nurses and practicing RNs alike, accreditation is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an online nursing program. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) plays a central role in assuring quality and accountability in nursing education across the United States.
From associate degrees to doctoral-level programs, ACEN accreditation signals that a nursing program meets rigorous national standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, and clinical training.
What Does ACEN Accreditation Mean?
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) is a national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Its mission is to ensure quality and integrity in nursing education by evaluating programs against rigorous academic and clinical standards. ACEN accredits nursing programs at every educational level—from practical nursing certificates to doctoral degrees—offering a comprehensive approach to program quality across the entire nursing profession.
ACEN accreditation serves as a formal recognition that a nursing program:
- Maintains a qualified faculty and evidence-based curriculum
- Supports student success through adequate resources and clinical training
- Undergoes continuous quality improvement through regular self-assessment and peer review
Types of Programs ACEN Accredits
ACEN is unique in that it accredits:
- Practical/Vocational Nursing (PN/VN)
- Diploma and Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees (BSN, MSN)
- Doctoral programs, including practice-focused degrees like the DNP
This distinguishes ACEN from other agencies, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), which only accredits bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
If you’re planning to become a nurse practitioner or advance your practice role, understanding the differences between accrediting bodies is essential. The nurse practitioner accreditation guide offers a helpful overview of how ACEN and CCNE influence program options, licensure eligibility, and long-term career flexibility.
Why Choose an ACEN-Accredited Online Program?
Selecting an ACEN-accredited online nursing program ensures that your education meets national standards for academic rigor, clinical preparation, and professional relevance. Whether you’re pursuing an associate degree or a doctorate, ACEN accreditation provides important benefits that support both immediate educational goals and long-term career advancement.
Eligibility for Licensure and Certification
Most state boards of nursing and national certifying bodies require that your degree come from an accredited program. Completing an ACEN-accredited program ensures you’ll be eligible to:
- Apply for RN licensure or advanced practice certification
- Sit for the NCLEX-RN or APRN certification exams
- Meet regulatory standards in all 50 states
Assurance of Academic and Clinical Quality
ACEN evaluates not only classroom instruction but also the quality of clinical experiences, faculty qualifications, student learning outcomes, and institutional resources. This means you can trust that your program meets professional expectations across the board.
Easier Credit Transfer and Graduate School Readiness
Accreditation plays a key role in credit transfer policies. If you plan to return to school for a higher degree—such as progressing from an associate to a BSN or from an MSN to a DNP—having ACEN-accredited coursework increases your chances of acceptance and credit recognition.
Access to Financial Aid and Scholarships
Only students enrolled in accredited programs are eligible for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, Direct Loans, and HRSA nursing scholarships. ACEN-accredited schools also tend to be included in employer tuition reimbursement programs and national scholarship listings.
Whether you’re looking for flexibility, clinical credibility, or a stepping stone to future education, an ACEN-accredited online program offers a trustworthy foundation.
Types of ACEN-Accredited Programs Available Online
One of ACEN’s strengths is its broad accreditation scope, covering nursing education from entry-level certificates to advanced practice doctorates. This wide reach allows students at different stages in their nursing journey to access high-quality, ACEN-accredited online programs that align with their educational and career goals.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Many community colleges and technical schools offer online or hybrid LPN-to-ADN bridge programs, allowing licensed practical nurses to become registered nurses. These programs typically combine online coursework with local clinical placements and prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Bachelor’s Degree (BSN)
The most common online ACEN-accredited BSN option is the RN-to-BSN pathway, designed for licensed RNs seeking to complete their bachelor’s degree. These programs often offer 100% online coursework, flexible pacing, and credit for previous nursing education and experience.
Master’s Degree (MSN)
ACEN-accredited online MSN programs may focus on:
- Leadership and administration
- Nursing education
- Clinical specialties (depending on state requirements)
These programs typically include advanced coursework, evidence-based practice, and a practicum or capstone project tailored to the student’s area of focus.
Doctoral Programs
Some institutions also offer online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs accredited by ACEN. These practice-focused degrees prepare advanced practice nurses and nurse leaders for system-level roles in clinical innovation, quality improvement, and health policy. In a few cases, ACEN may also accredit research-based nursing doctorates, though this is less common.
Diverse Program Focus Areas
Whether you’re drawn to direct patient care, nursing education, or organizational leadership, ACEN-accredited online programs come in a range of concentrations to meet varied career goals. Many are designed with the working nurse in mind, offering part-time options, asynchronous learning, and local clinical arrangements to support real-world flexibility.
Top ACEN-Accredited Online Nursing Programs
The following list highlights standout online nursing programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). As ACEN accredits a wide array of nursing programs across degree levels and specializations, this list is not intended to be comprehensive. Instead, it features representative programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels from institutions recognized for their strong academic reputations, high graduation rates, and rigorous, well-rounded nursing curricula.
These programs reflect a broad sampling of what’s available to online learners and can serve as a valuable starting point in your search. As always, the best program for any student depends on individual goals, circumstances, and professional aspirations. We encourage you to visit each program’s page and explore additional ACEN-accredited offerings to find the option that fits you best.
Andrews University
Berrien Springs, MI
Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
Andrews University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program designed for nurses seeking advanced clinical and leadership roles. The program provides two entry points—BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP—and focuses on evidence-based practice and healthcare policy.
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Bethel University
Saint Paul, MN
Bachelor of Science in Nursing RN to BSN Online
Bethel University’s RN to BSN program is tailored for registered nurses aiming to complete their bachelor’s degree. The program is offered entirely online and emphasizes holistic nursing education grounded in Christian values.
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Bryan College of Health Sciences
Lincoln, NE
Master of Science in Nursing
Bryan College of Health Sciences provides an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with tracks in Nursing Education and Nursing Leadership. The program is designed for working nurses and includes a combination of synchronous and asynchronous coursework.
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Clarkson College
Omaha, NE
Online Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Clarkson College offers an online RN to BSN program for associate-degree or diploma-prepared nurses seeking to advance their education. The program builds upon existing nursing experience and focuses on leadership and evidence-based practice.
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Endicott College
Beverly, MA
Nursing Administration and Leadership (M.S.)
Endicott College’s Master of Science in Nursing Administration and Leadership program prepares nurses for managerial roles across various healthcare settings. The curriculum emphasizes organizational leadership and strategic decision-making.
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Gardner-Webb University
Boiling Springs, NC
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Gardner-Webb University’s RN to BSN program is designed for registered nurses aiming to complete their bachelor’s degree. The program offers a flexible online format and is part of the North Carolina RN to BSN Uniform Articulation Agreement.
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Regis College
Weston, MA
Online BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice
Regis College provides an online BSN to DNP program with multiple concentration areas, including Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program is designed for baccalaureate-prepared nurses seeking advanced practice roles.
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St. John’s College
Annapolis, MD
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
St. John’s College offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice program aimed at post-master’s prepared nurses. The program includes a practicum component and focuses on clinical leadership and evidence-based practice.
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University of Tulsa
Tulsa, OK
Master of Science in Nursing
The University of Tulsa’s online Master of Science in Nursing program offers specializations in areas such as Leadership and Innovation, Education and Elevation, and Public Health. The program is designed to prepare nurses for advanced roles in various healthcare settings.
Tips for Choosing the Right ACEN-Accredited Online Program
With many accredited online nursing programs available, it’s important to select one that aligns with your educational background, career goals, and personal circumstances. Here are some practical tips to help you evaluate and compare ACEN-accredited programs effectively:
Confirm Accreditation Status
Always verify that a program is listed in the official ACEN accredited program directory. Be cautious of programs that only mention “national accreditation” without naming ACEN specifically.
Review Clinical Placement Support and State Authorization
Not all online programs can enroll students from every state. Check:
- Whether the program is authorized in your state
- How clinical hours are arranged (on your own or with school assistance)
- If the school has partnerships with local facilities
Strong clinical support can make or break your online learning experience—especially at the graduate level.
Evaluate Faculty Credentials and Student Support
Look for programs with experienced, credentialed faculty—especially those actively practicing or conducting research in their area of instruction. Also consider:
- Academic advising and career services
- Technical support for online learning platforms
- Flexibility in course scheduling and assignment deadlines
Align Curriculum with Career Goals
Whether you’re interested in bedside care, nursing education, or leadership, the program’s focus should match your ambitions. Review the course list, practicum requirements, and specialization options to ensure they support your desired career path.
Taking the time to assess these factors will help you choose a program that supports your success from enrollment through graduation—and beyond.
FAQ
Are online ACEN-accredited programs accepted in all states?
Not necessarily. While ACEN accreditation is widely recognized and respected, state boards of nursing may have additional approval requirements. Always verify that the school is authorized to operate in your state and that its graduates are eligible for licensure where you intend to practice.
How do online clinical hours work?
Online nursing programs still require in-person clinical experiences. Many schools allow students to complete clinical hours locally, either through school-arranged placements or self-secured preceptors that meet program criteria. It’s important to clarify whether the program provides clinical coordination or expects you to find your own sites.
Can I transfer ACEN-accredited credits to a CCNE-accredited school?
Often, yes. While ACEN and CCNE are separate accrediting bodies, both are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Most schools will accept transfer credits from either accreditation, but policies vary—so always check with the receiving institution.
Do ACEN-accredited programs require campus visits?
Some do, especially for skills check-offs, orientation, or intensives. However, many online ACEN-accredited programs are fully remote aside from clinical hours. Be sure to ask whether campus visits are mandatory or optional, and how often they occur.
Finding the Right Program for You
Choosing an ACEN-accredited online nursing program ensures you’re investing in an education that meets nationally recognized standards for quality and rigor. As you explore your options, be sure to consult ACEN’s official listings, confirm your state’s licensure requirements, and speak directly with program advisors to clarify clinical expectations and support services.
Whether you’re beginning your nursing journey or advancing into leadership or advanced practice, an ACEN-accredited program can provide the flexible, credible foundation you need to succeed.
