Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Accreditation

Most states require accreditation by a nationally recognized accrediting body as a baseline for approving a licensed practical nurse education program. When you are researching potential nursing programs—especially online programs—be sure to find out if they are accredited.

The U.S. Secretary of Education recognizes two non-governmental institutes as official accreditation organizations for nursing education programs:

• The National League of Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC)
• The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

However, the CCNE only offers accreditation to baccalaureate and graduate programs. Therefore, most LPN programs pursue accreditation through NLNAC, which accredits clinical doctorate, masters, baccalaureate, associate, diploma and practical nursing education programs.

Accreditation is a voluntary, self-regulatory process. That means that nursing programs must choose to seek accreditation and proactively demonstrate that they meet or exceed the accrediting organization's standards and criteria for educational quality.

Accreditation organizations pay close attention to state governments and health departments. They know what is required to practice as an LPN nurse in each state. Therefore, state laws may change, but attending an accredited school will usually ensure that you meet the basic criteria to practice as a licensed practical nurse. Attending an accredited LPN school also increases your chance of getting an LPN job and improves your occupational mobility. If you need to move, you'll have an easier time getting a license in a new state.

_{Sources:
American Association of Colleges of Nursing; Act Online; National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc.; LPN Nursing Student Resources.}