In a major achievement for John Carroll University and its growing College of Health, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program has officially earned full accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) through December 31, 2030 — the maximum initial term awarded by one of the nation’s leading nursing accreditors.
The CCNE Board of Commissioners determined that the program is in full compliance with all four accreditation standards with no compliance concerns, affirming the quality, rigor, and mission alignment of John Carroll’s curriculum and clinical partnerships. The accreditation is effective retroactively to March 12, 2025, following CCNE’s on-site evaluation earlier this year. Recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education, CCNE sets some of the highest standards in the profession, ensuring academic quality, program integrity, and accountability in nursing education.
“Achieving full CCNE accreditation through 2030 affirms what we have known from the beginning — that John Carroll University is uniquely positioned to educate nurses who lead with excellence, integrity, and compassion,” said Dr. Melissa Cole, DNP, APRN, ANP-BC, Dean of the College of Health. “This recognition reflects our commitment to the highest academic standards and to preparing graduates who serve others with purpose and skill.”
Launched in 2023, the BSN program has quickly become one of John Carroll’s fastest-growing areas of academic momentum, now enrolling more than 150 students and blending a strong liberal arts foundation with hands-on clinical experiences through partnerships with leading Cleveland-area healthcare organizations. Rooted in Jesuit values, the program emphasizes person-centered care, interdisciplinary learning, and a holistic approach to health that prepares future nurses for a complex and rapidly evolving healthcare environment.
Shaping the Future of Nursing Through Innovation and Excellence
The accreditation marks a celebratory moment for the nursing faculty, staff, students, and partners who helped shape the program from the ground up.
“I am incredibly proud of our nursing faculty and students for achieving CCNE accreditation, a reflection of a results-driven team and a passion-fueled commitment to excellence,” said Dr. Dawn Boettcher, chair and director of JCU’s Department of Nursing. “Together, we have built something extraordinary that truly represents the best of John Carroll University.”
Students say the accreditation not only strengthens the degree they are earning, but also validates the quality and impact of what they experience every day in the classroom and in clinical environments.
“I’m so excited to see all the hard work of our faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders recognized through this new accreditation. It’s a reflection of the quality education we receive in the JCU Nursing Program,” remarked Peter Wangechi ’27. “It gives us students the confidence and opportunity to pursue our goals anywhere in the country.”
Sarah Dailey ’26, a senior in the program, shared a similar sentiment. “This accreditation shows our commitment to excellence, innovation, and high-quality nursing education, and I’m proud to be part of JCU Nursing every day,” she said.
Looking Ahead
As the demand for nurses continues to grow nationwide, this accreditation further elevates the program’s national reputation and reinforces its mission to develop ethical leaders, innovative thinkers, and compassionate healers who are prepared to make an immediate impact in a complex and rapidly changing healthcare landscape. John Carroll’s reaffirmation of accreditation will occur during the spring of 2030, continuing the University’s momentum in preparing the next generation of ethical, compassionate healthcare leaders.
