A gold star and a maximum seven-year accreditation for MUN's BN program
Memorial University's bachelor of nursing (BN) (collaborative) program has once again achieved the gold standard in nursing education, a full seven-year accreditation from the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN).
Memorial's undergraduate nursing program, delivered at three sites in the province – Memorial University of Newfoundland's School of Nursing, the Centre for Nursing Studies and the Western Regional School of Nursing – has earned top marks from CASN, the governing organization in Canada for nursing education.
"I congratulate faculty, students and staff at each of the nursing sites," said Dr. Gary Kachanoski, president and vice-chancellor of Memorial. "It's a tremendous accomplishment to receive a full seven-year accreditation for the third consecutive time. Nursing students and alumni can feel very proud of their education and indeed their affiliation with Memorial University."
Each of the three sites that offer the BN (collaborative) program was assessed separately in February 2015, with all three awarded the seven-year accreditation.
Accreditation is a rigorous process that many professional schools undergo periodically to ensure they are delivering a relevant curriculum and have clear resources and processes in place to prepare students for their professional roles.
"We are just so pleased that CASN recognized the high quality of nursing education we offer at Memorial's School of Nursing," said Dr. Alice Gaudine, dean, School of Nursing. "To receive a full seven-year accreditation, and with no recommendations, is exceptional. The credit goes to our knowledgeable and skilled faculty, and to our dedicated and committed staff, who have developed an intensive and outstanding program. Our program excellence is also because we have excellent students and dedicated preceptors who serve as their mentors."
Dr. Gaudine also commended the Department of Health and Community Services, health-care organizations across the province and the many nurses who recognize the importance of high-quality nursing education in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Accreditors from CASN spent time observing students in class and clinical situations, and meeting with faculty, staff and students.
The accreditors were also impressed with the high calibre of the BN students they met at each site, commenting on the students' involvement in community and their commitment to social justice.
"They were amazed by the knowledge, skill, and compassion of our students," said Dr. Gaudine.