Henderson State's graduate nursing program receives CCNE accreditation extension

Henderson State University's Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program's accreditation has been extended by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) through 2035.

The CCNE Board of Commissioners determined that Henderson's MSN program "substantially complied with all four accreditation standards" established by CCNE. The accreditation is effective as of November 2024 when the program's CCNE on-site evaluation was conducted.

"CCNE accreditation signifies that a nursing program meets or exceeds nationally-established standards for nursing education," said Dr. Trudi Sabaj, chief academic nursing officer. "It assures students, employers, and the public that the program provides a high-quality education that prepares graduates for safe and effective nursing practice."

To achieve and maintain CCNE accreditation, a nursing program must maintain high standards every day, Sabaj said.

"We make sure we have excellent faculty, we track key outcome measures, and we look for opportunities to continuously improve our program," Sabaj said. "An accredited program means the university provides time for faculty to not only teach, but to maintain and grow in their skills, credentials, and scholarly activities."

Dr. Celya Taylor, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs, said, "Our graduates and faculty exhibit high standards in their professional roles in classrooms, clinics, or hospitals every day. This accreditation milestone showcases the quality of our programs and their impactful contributions in teaching, service, and leadership."

Henderson's Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program offers two tracks-Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Nursing Executive Leadership and Administration. Both tracks are offered online, allowing flexibility for working students. The FNP track requires a two-day in-person session during the first semester and clinical practicums; courses are online.

"We are currently accepting applications for our MSN programs. Higher degrees not only enhance your knowledge, but also open doors to incredible career opportunities," said Dr. Allison Divine, graduate nursing program coordinator.

Visit hsu.edu/msn for additional information.

"One of the things that makes Henderson's nursing programs so very special is our commitment to practices based on Jean Watson's Theory of Caring," said Sabaj. "Nursing is not just about medical interventions, it's about human connection and care.

"Having this dedication to human caring as our core philosophy gives us much strength to deliver programs that meet the very high standards of CCNE."