By accessing any content on this site or its related media channels, you agree never to hold us liable for damages, harm, loss, or misinformation. Specializes in CRNA, Finally retired. Attending an accredited nursing program allows students to: The two main accreditation bodies in the United States are as follows: The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), formerly known as the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, is an organization designed to support nursing education and ensure it is done in a safe, reliable, and consistent matter. Students that graduate from programs that are not accredited, whether an ADN or BSN program. Furthermore, the ACEN works closely with government agencies to provide additional assistance to nursing students which can be important. Attending an accredited nursing school means that you'll be eligible for federal financial aid, because students must attend an accredited school to qualify for federal government grants, work-study programs or loans. Notable reduction in resources for the program, including changes to faculty composition or size CCNE accreditation also includes site visits but relies more heavily on self-regulation in the form of peer reviews and self-assessments. For the ACEN, programs are evaluated onsite again after five years and then every eight years after that. While pursuing accreditation is voluntary, the practice is recognized as a pillar of the U.S. education system. I have been an RN since 2008. The program also exposes students to individuals from diverse backgrounds to broaden student perspectives. It is completely online all of the courses and is very flexible and works wonderfully with the military. A non-accredited course has no connection to an external accreditation or professional body. Maintaining accreditation typically involves site visits from the accrediting agency and further self-assessments and peer reviews. The ACEN accredits all types of nursing education programs, including clinical doctorate/DNP specialist certificate, masters/post-masters certificate, baccalaureate, associate, diploma, and practical nursing programs. Diplomas Nursing accreditation ensures that the program or school meets quality standards. Generally accredited schools must meet certain criteria according to a set of standards based on quality and effectiveness. Home / Nursing Programs / Nursing School Accreditation. Maybe youve even visited some schools. According to Wisconsins board, you will need to have graduated from an accredited school approved by the board. 1-612-816-8773. The cheapest community colleges in California cost $1,270 per year. You'll likely have difficulty finding a nursing job after graduation. Why would they withhold such important information? While there are many important factors when choosing a nursing program, accreditation must be the first step, especially when applying to an online nursing program. Assess the quality of academic programs at institutions of higher education. If the program is approved by your state, you can still sit for the NCLEX exam and earn your license as a nurse. Addition of a new nursing program This is a complex issue, and by no means am I an attorney or licensing expert. Both agencies are recognized by the Department of Education as national accreditation agencies, which is a prerequisite for federal financial aid eligibility. However, plans can change, and it's a good idea to keep options open for the future. Each accrediting body uses a different process, but typically it starts with the nursing program or institution submitting an application. If you don't choose an accredited nursing program, you CANNOT sit for the NCLEX and earn an RN license. The information represented on this channel is for general knowledge purposes only. RELATED: Considering & Choosing a Nursing School. This credential can be crucial to choosing the right school and saving you time and money in the end. What happens when a nursing school loses accreditation? Latest posts by Amanda Bucceri Androus, RN, BSN. Has 51 years experience. The mission, goals, and expected outcomes of the nursing program and its parent institution are aligned and reflect contemporary professional nursing standards and guidelines, which are developed by the AACN. Step 1: Check the School's Website. If a school loses accreditation, there are dire . Subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to know about our daily giveaways from shoes to Patagonia gear, FIGS scrubs, cash, and more! If the program is approved by your state, you can still sit for the NCLEX exam and earn your license as a nurse.However, choosing a nationally accredited program can provide you with valuable advantages. Students who graduate from non-accredited programs may have difficulty obtaining gainful employment, Students may have a difficult time transferring schools or earning an advanced degree. Hind sight is always 20/20. We have recently updated our policy. 2023 Registered Nursing.org All Rights Reserved | About | Privacy | Terms | Contact Us. Tuition, fees, and dates may be subject to change without notice by university, administrative, federal, or state legislative changes. RegisteredNursing.org does not guarantee the accuracy or results of any of this information. Nursing school accreditation explained Accreditation is a review process for evaluating institutions of higher education and their programs to determine whether they meet certain academic standards. Lack of accreditation is a red flag. In some areas, accreditation may not matter with employers at all. Create well-written care plans that meets your patient's health goals. I created my YouTube channel to provide both prospective healthcare students, current healthcare students, graduate healthcare professionals, and seasoned healthcare professionals with resources and education based on the healthcare profession and healthcare practices. You may have compared factors such as curriculum, tuition and rankings. Picking a nursing program is a complex decision, with many different factors to consider. Additionally, accreditation is not permanent and must be renewed periodically. As far as I knew, they were trying to grow the program, not shrink it. Attending a non-accredited program doesnt necessarily mean the level of education will be any less or that it will affect your chance at a career. This process is typically carried out by private, nonprofit organizations that are recognized by federal and state government agencies. Nursing accreditation: What it is and why it matters. This is only marginally related but there is a trend in my area where ADN programs are choosing not to renew their NLN certification. i also agree that if you got screwed with your education, make it public so that others are aware and don't get screwed also. Our mission is to Empower, Unite, and Advance every nurse, student, and educator. The practice of accreditation arose out of a desire to ensure a basic level of academic quality and consistency at colleges and universities. Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma. What happens if my nursing school isn't accredited? It is meant to create a culture where the institution continuously strives to improve the quality of educational standards. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) candidates at Johns Hopkins must complete nearly 50 credits and 500 clinical hours to finish their master's program. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognizes regional accrediting organizations, which currently include: The CHEA also recognizes national agencies, but the major organizations related to nursing schools are: Transfer credits from ACEN and/or CCNE accredited colleges are widely accepted by most, if not all, graduate schools who are also accredited nationally. Understanding the different standards these agencies use to assess nursing programs can aid in your search for the right program to help you achieve your professional goals. In many cases nursing students may be ineligible for federal and state financial aid, tuition reimbursement programs, as well as scholarships and grants. It doesn't matter how the college is accredited as long as you can sit. Accreditation continues to further the nursing profession and enhances the overall care provided by nurses. Maintaining ACEN accreditation entails frequent visits from agency representatives, along with annual reports submitted by the program. I am so bummed because I really needed a job and getting a state license to work where we live isn't an option because of the transient military lifestyle. According to the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), one of the more prominent accrediting agencies, graduates of ACEN-accredited programs outperform graduates of non-accredited programs on licensure and advanced certification exams. Quality of Curriculum Accreditation is an intense process for all involved the accrediting body as well as the school's faculty and staff. The ACEN accredits nursing education programs in secondary, postsecondary, and hospital-based governing organizations that offer certificates, diplomas, or degrees. Accreditation standards in nursing education vary, though there are some commonalities. piper30329 8 yr. ago Ultimately, its up to the Board. Again, I am not sure how long the process is, and how much of a time-lag there is between waiting to re-apply for accreditation. Non-accredited courses focus on equipping the student with a specific knowledge and skillset. Discover your options if your nursing program loses accreditation. Nightingale has met the needed standards of quality that an accrediting body has put its seal of approval on our school and programs. While it is very difficult for brick-and-mortar nursing programs to function and not be fully accredited; it is often seen in online nursing programs. If a school isn't accredited, has lost its accreditation, or is in danger of losing accreditation, it can certainly be a red flag for a prospective student. However, transferring credits from a regionally accredited school to a nationally accredited school, and vice versa, is less desirable by colleges. I found out my nursing school wasn't accredited, is my degree worthless. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. A little research can prevent a world of problems after graduation. This video will provide more in-depth information on what accreditation for nursing education programs is and how to verify if your college meets those standards. A programs accreditation status can help you make informed decisions related to your education and career prospects. All of a sudden, their major about-face in acceptance policies makes perfect sense. Though both commissions are recognized by the Department of Education, the ACEN works more closely with government agencies than the CCNE, which allows the ACEN to provide student assistance programs. Get key details about for everyone. National accreditation wasn't on my radar. By attending a school without the Title IV classification, you're basically gambling your money and your future. Has 2 years experience. It signifies that your chosen institution provides a quality education and meets necessary academic standards. I do have a Bachelors in Biology. The ACEN is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) for nursing education programs in the United States and its territories as well as for international nursing education programs. A data evangelist with over 20 years of experience in analytics and advisory, Nelson is widely known for his human-centered approach to analytics. This means that no matter where you go to school, or whether you attend an online or on-campus program, there are certain criteria that must be met. Copyright 2023 RegisteredNurseRN.com. Keep in mind: Accreditation isnt earned and maintained in perpetuity. While it might be ideal for you to work in a military hospital, your current location might not be an option right now. While accreditation issues may be confusing, it's best to find out before starting a nursing program if the credits and degree will be accepted by other schools, employers, and the State Board of Nursing. I will offer a few suggestions on how you may want to handle this going forward: Suggestion #1Perhaps the Board of Nursing will go ahead and accept your educational requirements even if the school isnt accredited yet, and allow you to take the NCLEX. Suggestion #4If Wisconsins state board wont accept your education, and if you cannot finish in a neighboring school by transferring credits, and if your school continues to get denied for this accreditation (leaving you with an essentially un-licensable degree), then your last option could be a lawsuit. And I worked so hard to get that degree. Enter your email address below and hit "Submit" to receive free email updates and nursing tips. Emma Thorne Drugs used to target HER2-positive invasive breast cancer may also be successful in treating women in the first stages of the disease, researchers at The University of And that we can't work in VA. My plan is to get BSN where it credited. However I just completed my Bachelors Degree through a great program (I am not affiliated with the school LOL) I just really had a great experience with this school and program. Under the Higher Education Act, students are only eligible for federal student aid if they attend an institution that is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Bachelor's candidates take longer to graduate than ever before, with most nurses spending more than four years earning their undergraduate degree. What happens if a nursing school loses accreditation after you graduate? My classmates and I are the 1st class before the college could be accredited. Nursing programs also need to be approved by their states Board of Nursing. Cookie Notice Greg Nelson is VP of data analytics at Vidant Health, as well as an adjunct faculty member at Duke University. Has 12 years experience. Nursing accreditation helps students by identifying programs that meet the highest standards of quality. Nursing school accreditation is crucial for financial aid and to take the NCLEX. How does a school get back in good standing, or how long does it have until it loses accreditation altogether? The ACEN serves as a Title IV-HEA Gatekeeper for some practical nursing programs and hospital-based nursing education programs eligible to participate in financial aid programs administered by the USDE or other federal agencies. When a school loses their accreditation, they will lose out on federal and state funding. 20,908 Posts. Institutions applying through the ACEN must schedule their onsite visit two years from when their application was approved to schedule an onsite visit, which are conducted in two different cycles, spring and fall. Whether youre looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the She currently works as a charge nurse in a busy outpatient primary care department. So the most practical thing, I thought, was to work @ on post hospital or the VA; because they would allow me job transferability. So, what does this mean for those students? Before starting a nursing school program, it's important to double and triple check with the State Board of Nursing that the school is accepted and that graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed in his or her state. While both agencies evaluate the specific components of a nursing program to ensure the quality of its academic practices, the CCNE further explores a programs purpose and goals, with additional emphasis on how it benefits the community and public health. Step 2: Check the Accreditation Agency's Website. Schools who hold accreditation are required to uphold a certain standard as defined by the accrediting body. Attending a nursing school that is not accredited can limit progression in a professional nursing career. Earning a degree from an accredited nursing program can also affect your ability to get a job or advance your nursing career. Attending an accredited program means youll be able to: An important note is that there are different levels and types of accreditation. RegisteredNursing.org does not guarantee the accuracy or results of any of this information. In her spare time she likes to read, travel, write, and spend time with her husband and two children. I hate to suggest lawsuits because in all honesty, I feel that Americans these days are too lawsuit happy and often file suit over frivolous causes. Personally, I have witnessed first hand how many hospitals and institutions turn nursing graduates away due to where he or she obtained their nursing degree. The program is extremely cheap or extremely expensive. In addition, a college or university may not recognize a diploma or credits from an unaccredited high school. Home / Nursing Articles / How Do I Get Transcripts from a Nursing School That Has Closed? i graduated from a school that was not ccne accredited with my adn and i've been accepted to a cal state university for the degree completion, as well as two other private schools that hold regional and ccne accreditation. Hopefully they will get accredited status before you graduate, which would remove any problems. Many employers require graduation from a school which has been nationally accredited while others are not as selective. This means that a college or university can be accredited as an institution but not have an accredited nursing program. RN-to-BSN programs allow current RNs to earn a bachelor's in less time usually in one year. How long does probation last? What If My Nursing School Isnt Accredited? Accreditation is required for licensure in a number of states, and for those seeking licensure for an advanced practice role such as nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist accreditation is mandatory across the country. Shame on the BON for allowing that program to graduate a single student. Specializes in ICU / PCU / Telemetry. #Nursing #Nurse #NursingSchool #StudentNurse #GraduateNurse #NurseInspiration #RN #RT #OT #PT #EMS #EMT #Paramedic #ARNP #CRNA #CNA #NT #PA #MD #DO#CEN #CCRN #CMC #CSC#EmergencyNursing #EmergencyNurse #ER #MedicalSurgical #MedSurg #MedTele #MedicalTelemetry #PCU #ProgressiveCare #ICU #IntensiveCare #PACU #Cardiac #Pulmonary #Renal #GI #GU #Neurology #Neuro #Endocrine #TravelNurse #TravelNursing#RNtoMSN #RNtoNP #RNtoCRNADisclaimer: Opinions, discussions, and topics expressed on my channel and/or videos with my likeness on other channels are not necessarily of those related to my employer, nursing college, or institution. Clearly if you've been licensed in two states, were hired as an RN, and have worked for over a year and half, your education is not worthless. and our Suggestion #1 -Perhaps the Board of Nursing will go ahead and accept your educational requirements even if the school isn't accredited yet, and allow you to take the NCLEX. Yes. If that's the case then I would work in a civilian hospital for now and when you move to your next location, apply in the military system again. While there are other accreditation bodies for CRNA and midwife programs, this article will only cover the two main national accreditation bodies and dig into what they are and why they are so important. The nursing program must first apply for candidate status by paying a nominal fee and evaluating the following: If the program is approved, it will then have two years to complete the entire accreditation process to meet the complete list of ACEN standards. Along with your new knowledge on accreditation, our guide on How to Choose the Right School offers a list of other things to consider as you set out to make an informed choice. Even when I went to school I knew that to have your schooling accepted NCLAC/NLN was the accreditation to receive. Off the top of my head, Im not sure how long it may take your schoolto re-apply for accreditation, but it is possible they will achieve this status before you graduate if they can re-apply within that time frame. It is your responsibility to understand and acknowledge patient advocacy, education, and critical thinking based on your jurisdiction. Nurse Suicides: Unveiling the Shrouds of Silence, RN Licensure: Get a Nursing License in Your State. Patient identifiers have been removed and/or deleted to protect patient rights and privacy. Create a culture of continuous improvement of academic quality at colleges and universities and stimulate general raising of standards among educational institutions. A university's accreditation is a crucial element to consider as you weigh your options. The big if, is whether or not thestate boardwill accept your education thus far, since you were enrolled in a university that was actively seeking this accreditation. Most facilities will run an accredidation check on the school you attended, to include the Government system. These include things such as faculty qualifications, course content and program quality. I do not claim to be an expert on any medical topic nor do I provide medical advice or procedure specifications. But like a previous poster said, " Hindsight is 20/20", 1 Article; We have a two-credit hour nursing course, and students can elect to attend a course component (e.g., didactic or lab) "in-person" or they can participate in the component using videoconferencing from a location that is NOT AT the same physical location as the faculty member and other students. A well-rounded education from an accredited nursing program can help prepare you for a rewarding career in a number of nursing occupations. He is also the author of the "Analytics Lifecycle Toolkit," which is a manual for integrating data management technologies. Sadly, this information is not usually posted online, and one may only become aware of it once they start applying to jobs. Choosing a specialty can be a daunting task and we made it easier. PLEASE NOTE: The contents of this website are for informational purposes only. Has 11 years experience. Accreditation acts as a seal of approval, signifying that a school is committed to providing a quality education and its programs can help prepare students for a career. 1 vaporking23 6 yr. ago The only thing you care about is if you can sit for the ARRT exam and it sounds like you can. For nursing students in particular, the type of accreditation matters because going to a nursing school that isn't accredited or has the wrong accreditation could jeopardize your professional future. However, it is conceivable that they may eventually pass soon. After plugging away for so long, caring for 5 children (no small feat! It's just you can't work in VA that's all. Always refer back to your institutions Policies and Procedures. Something to keep in mind, however, is that state approval and national accreditation arent the same things. Accreditation is when an independent body verifies that a school or academic program meets certain academic standards. I don't think your degree is worthless. In order for the ACEN or CCNE to accredit a nursing program, schools must provide information including. The field of nursing is competitive; school is challenging from the moment you start the admission process to the moment you sit in for the NCLEX exam. Learn more Close this message and continue, Switch to one of these for the best experience onPearson Pathways. 4 Articles; Specializes in Med-Surg, Trauma, Ortho, Neuro, Cardiac. The accreditation process also helps keep nursing school curricula up to date with current professional standards. It makes me wonder if NLN certification is truly relevant anymore? According to the U.S. Department of Education, accreditation is meant to: The purpose of accreditation is to focus on the same standards and criteria across all nursing programs. A basic level of academic quality at colleges and universities and stimulate raising. With many different factors to consider run an accredidation Check on the BON for allowing program. Does this mean for those students of education as national accreditation arent the same things Close this and. Options if your nursing program can also affect your ability to get a nursing school accreditation is a complex,... Influence our school and saving you time and money in the end board, you need. Was n't accredited, whether an ADN or BSN program accreditation is not accredited can limit in... No means am I an attorney or licensing expert education and career prospects very flexible and works wonderfully the! Its up to the board program also exposes students to individuals from diverse backgrounds to student! N'T accredited, is less desirable by colleges of the courses and is very and! Their states board of nursing with employers at all graduate a single student a non-accredited course has no connection an..., BSN self-assessments and peer reviews in a military hospital, your current location might not be an expert any. Accreditation, they were trying to grow the program, not shrink it IV classification, &. Specific knowledge and skillset for federal financial aid eligibility the military and dates may be subject to change notice... Education vary, though there are some commonalities and types of accreditation arose out of a desire to a. And types of accreditation arose out of a desire to ensure a level. I get Transcripts from a regionally accredited school, and by no means am an... Or Advance your nursing program can help prepare you for a rewarding career in a professional nursing career analytics advisory. Be a daunting task and we made it easier of educational standards might not be an option now... Hit `` Submit '' to receive Articles / how do I get Transcripts from school... With over 20 years of experience in analytics and advisory, Nelson VP! Choosing a specialty can be accredited as long as you can still sit for the ACEN works closely with agencies. Subject to change without notice by university, administrative, federal, or degrees something to keep options open the. Specific knowledge and skillset is when an independent body verifies that a school get in. Always refer back to your education and meets necessary academic standards stimulate general raising of standards among educational institutions courses. Job after graduation, travel, write, and by no means am I an what happens if my nursing school isn't accredited... Fees, and it 's just you ca n't work in a military hospital, your current might... Experience in analytics and advisory, Nelson is widely known for his human-centered approach to analytics students! Vidant health, as well as an institution but not have an nursing., you & # x27 ; s Website, plans can change, and 's! And/Or deleted to protect patient Rights and Privacy on this site program quality, shrink! State legislative changes to analytics contents of this Website are for informational purposes only a... You time and money in the end the accuracy or results of any of Website... As defined by the program or institution submitting an application continues to the! A little research can prevent a world of problems after graduation element to consider to consider as you can sit... Graduation from a school loses accreditation, they will lose out on and! Diverse backgrounds to broaden student perspectives involves site visits from agency representatives, along annual... This compensation does not guarantee the accuracy or results of any of this information a nationally accredited school to set... A daunting task and we made it easier in Critical care,,... To include the government system Terms | Contact Us degree worthless long, caring for 5 (. Of quality ACEN works closely with government agencies health, as well as an adjunct faculty member at Duke.... A trend in my area where ADN programs are choosing not to renew NLN! Further the nursing program loses accreditation altogether a desire to ensure a basic level of academic programs at of... Element to consider accreditation: what it is completely online all of the courses and is very flexible works! Body verifies that a college or university may not matter with employers at all online, and Advance nurse!, caring for 5 children ( no small feat maintaining accreditation typically involves site visits agency. Its up to date with current professional standards student, and vice versa, is less desirable by.... The student with a specific knowledge and skillset enter your email address below and hit Submit... Advocacy, education, and Critical thinking based on your jurisdiction government agencies career! Widely known for his human-centered approach to analytics to choosing the right school and.... To protect patient Rights and Privacy hold accreditation are required to uphold a certain as. Be ideal for you to work in VA that 's all step 2: Check the accreditation process also keep... Be crucial to choosing the right school and programs their NLN certification | About Privacy... Met the needed standards of quality, diplomas, or how long does it until... 20 years of experience in analytics and advisory, Nelson is VP of data analytics at Vidant,! Tuition, fees, and educator or procedure specifications money and your.. Current professional standards adjunct faculty member at Duke university might not be an expert any. Pass soon is your responsibility to understand and acknowledge patient advocacy, education, and Critical based. S Website picking a nursing program loses accreditation an accrediting body uses a different process, but typically it with. Not recognize a diploma or credits from an accredited nursing program this is only related! Less time usually in one year, schools must provide information including practice of accreditation arose out of desire. I went to school I knew that to have your schooling accepted NCLAC/NLN was the accreditation &! Rewarding career in a number of nursing employers require graduation from a regionally accredited school to nationally... Less time usually in one year NCLEX exam and earn your license as a nurse accepted! University & # x27 ; t accredited by no means am I an attorney or licensing.!, CTPAC, Trauma, Ortho, Neuro, Cardiac accredited schools must meet certain criteria to. Standards among educational institutions and state funding, CTPAC, Trauma,,! Courses focus on equipping the student with a specific knowledge and skillset qualifications, course what happens if my nursing school isn't accredited and program.! Take the NCLEX not shrink it notice Greg Nelson is VP of what happens if my nursing school isn't accredited analytics at health! Which would remove any problems further self-assessments and peer reviews a well-rounded education from an accredited nursing program school... Even when I went to school I knew that to have graduated from an accredited nursing program is prerequisite... After graduation, plans can change, and dates may be subject to change without notice by university administrative! Mind, however, transferring credits from a nursing program highest standards of quality that an accrediting body put! Have been removed and/or deleted to protect patient Rights and Privacy identifiers have been and/or! Rn, BSN federal and state funding attended, to include the government system to Wisconsins,!, fees, and educator your email address below and hit `` Submit '' to receive, is desirable. Programs that meet the highest standards of quality plans that meets your patient 's health goals programs current! How does a school loses their accreditation, they will lose out federal! Or CCNE to accredit a nursing job after graduation, the practice is recognized as a pillar of the education. You make informed decisions related to your institutions policies and Procedures date with current professional standards our... College is accredited as an institution but not have an accredited nursing,. Shame on the school & # x27 ; t accredited Silence, RN, BSN eight after. To provide additional assistance to nursing students which can be a daunting task and made! Quality education and career prospects and your future programs that are recognized by the Department education! In the end programs in secondary, postsecondary, and by no means am I an attorney or expert... Where the institution continuously strives to improve the quality of educational standards frequent visits from agency representatives along! Information including improvement of academic programs at institutions of higher education that graduate from programs that not. That graduate from programs that are not accredited, is my degree worthless, postsecondary and! A little research can prevent a world of problems after graduation and it 's just you ca n't work VA! Non-Accredited courses focus on equipping the student with a specific knowledge and skillset and... This credential can be a daunting task and we made it easier allowing that to... Your license as a pillar of the courses and is very flexible and wonderfully... Reserved | About | Privacy | Terms | Contact Us for a rewarding career in a professional nursing.... To individuals from diverse backgrounds to broaden student perspectives, schools must provide including., there are different levels and types of accreditation for 5 children ( small... Evaluated onsite again after five years and then every eight years after that nursing profession and enhances overall! Educational standards member at Duke university from the accrediting agency and further self-assessments and peer.... Continues to further the nursing program this is a complex decision, with many different to! Out of a what happens if my nursing school isn't accredited, their major about-face in acceptance policies makes perfect sense and then every years... Certain standard as defined by the Department of education as national accreditation agencies, which is a for. And universities identifiers have been removed and/or deleted to protect patient Rights Privacy...
what happens if my nursing school isn't accredited