Higher Learning Commission approves Denver College of Nursing for distance education, master of science in nursing programs

Denver College of Nursing (DCN) has received formal notification from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) that DCN has been approved for distance education courses and programs and that the HLC has approved the nursing college’s request to offer the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), said Dr. Marcia Bankirer, DCN president (www.denvercollegeofnursing.edu).

“DCN is preparing to offer a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degreed program option using distance-delivered education starting in October, 2015,” Bankirer explained. “Furthermore, DCN’s new MSN program is proposed for online delivery beginning in 2016.”

She added that, with this approval for distance education and programs, the programmatic accreditor for DCN, the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), soon will begin its review of this delivery option. DCN enjoys a commendable completion rate, where a significant majority of students, who begin a nursing program, complete their studies within the pre-determined timeframe, Bankirer said. She added that DCN’s strong reputation also is reflected in its pass rates for the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Exam), the examination for licensing nurses in the U.S.

DCN’s NCLEX pass rates, and the college’s rankings to other nursing schools, including major universities, are posted on the Colorado State Board of Nursing website, www.dora.state.co.us/nursing.

The HLC is an independent corporation that was founded in 1895 as one of six regional institutional accreditors in the US. HLC accredits degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions in the 19-state North Central region.