#United States #Florida Southern College #Nursing Programs #Lakeland, Florida #CCNE Accreditation

Florida Southern College's Nursing Programs Achieve Maximum CCNE Accreditation

Florida Southern College's Ann Blanton Edwards School of Nursing and Health Sciences has proudly received the maximum accreditation duration of 10 years from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for both its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. This significant achievement, which extends accreditation through June 30, 2036, showcases the school's unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional nursing education and fostering student success.

CCNE Accreditation Overview

CCNE is an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education, focused on assessing and endorsing nursing programs that exhibit effective educational practices and a commitment to continual quality enhancement. This achievement not only signifies the quality education at Florida Southern College but also cements the institution's mentorship role in developing highly qualified healthcare professionals.

According to Dr. Laly Joseph, Dean of the Ann Blanton Edwards School of Nursing and Health Sciences, this outstanding recognition reflects the dedication and collaborative effort of faculty, staff, students, and clinical partners. "It is a testament to the quality of our programs and our shared commitment to preparing highly qualified healthcare professionals who will make a meaningful impact in the communities they serve," Dr. Joseph expressed.

Excellence in Education

The accreditation reflects a sustained period of excellence characterized by impressive student outcomes such as high graduation rates, outstanding performance on licensure examinations, and successful employment placements. Florida Southern College maintains robust partnerships with healthcare organizations in Central Florida and beyond, offering students diverse clinical experiences that are both comprehensive and enriching.

The college offers an extensive array of nursing programs that encompass undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral education. With a focus on rigorous academic preparation and immersive clinical experiences, alongside advanced simulation-based learning, students are equipped with the clinical expertise, leadership capabilities, and professional competencies essential for thriving in today's complex healthcare landscape.

Commitment to Innovation

Dr. Joseph reinforced the college's mission, stating, "This milestone reaffirms our commitment to providing exceptional academic preparation, fostering innovation in healthcare education, and advancing the nursing profession through scholarship, leadership, service, and excellence." As demand for nurses continues to escalate nationwide, CCNE accreditation reassures students, employers, and healthcare partners that Florida Southern’s nursing programs meet stringent educational quality and professional preparation standards.

The maximum duration of the accreditation underscores the college's steadfast promise of nurturing the next generation of nursing clinicians, scholars, and healthcare leaders amidst a growing need in the healthcare sector.

A Legacy of Academic Excellence

Founded in 1883, Florida Southern College is the oldest private college in Florida, upholding its dedication to educational excellence through over 70 undergraduate and distinct graduate programs, including in business administration, education, nursing, and physical therapy. It boasts a favorable student-to-faculty ratio of 141:1 and recognizes accolades as a national leader in engaged learning with a proud legacy of 30 NCAA Division II National Championships.

In U.S. News & World Report's 2025 "Best Colleges" guide, Florida Southern is highly regarded, ranking #11 among “Best Regional Universities in the South,” #12 as “Most Innovative Schools,” and #24 in “Best Value Schools.” Furthermore, the college is featured in The Princeton Review's 2026 Best 391 Colleges guide and praised in the 2025 "Fiske Guide to Colleges". The 2025-2026 Colleges of Distinction guidebook commended Florida Southern’s AACSB-accredited Barney Barnett School of Business and Free Enterprise alongside its School of Education and the esteemed Ann Blanton Edwards School of Nursing and Health Sciences.

Notably, the college is home to the world’s largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture with 13 structures designed by the renowned architect, making it a unique environment for students and visitors alike.

With its long-standing commitment to academic excellence and student success, Florida Southern College continues to pioneer in nursing education, empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals with the knowledge, skills, and experience to make a significant impact in their communities.