For first year nursing student Malary Richter, it was crucial that her program be officially recognized by an accrediting body. Otherwise, she could have faced less opportunities after graduation.

“I make sure to look for a program that is accredited since many companies are requiring their staff to be from an accredited program to even consider your license,” Richter said.

Now that SMSU offers an accredited RN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program, Richter found her school.

The program recently received approval from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), a national accrediting agency.

“Going to an accredited program is important since it shows the program is meeting the criteria to teach nursing students up to the generalized standards that are required by the state,” Richter said.

RN to BSN started in fall 2013, and is overseen by Director of Nursing Laurie Johansen. It must run a full year before assessment. In fall 2014, three assessors came to campus over several days to evaluate its quality. A report was generated and taken back to the CCNE. Johansen found out the accrediting body approved the program at the end of May.

“Since the program had only been in progress for a year, we got our status as fast as we could,” Johansen said. “That really speaks well of the nursing program, but also to SMSU and the community. When CCNE assesses a nursing program, they don’t just look at the nursing program, they look at how they’re supported.”

Since accreditation was granted, Johansen has called the rise in enrollment “dramatic.” Before accreditation, a total of 55 students were admitted over a two year period. This fall alone, 25 students were admitted, meaning a full semester.

The program is predominately online. There are 11 courses in the nursing program with four classes having the opportunity to visit campus. The online atmosphere was perfect for students like Richter, who has a family and a full time nursing job.

The first two graduates of the program, Kristin Adams and Hillary Spray, received their diplomas in May.

Johansen hopes to expand the program in the future, but for now the focus is on making RN to BSN solid.

“I think we’re going to grow as a nursing program and we’re going to be able to serve the needs of potential students and healthcare facilities in our region,” Johansen said.