The Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) School of Nursing’s fall semester is off to an incredible start. Not only did its graduate program recently receive the maximum eight-year reaccreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), but the school has also been ranked among the top 20 best value nursing programs in the U.S. by BestValueSchools.com, and among the top 25 (No. 21 out of 1,189 entries) nursing programs in the eastern region by The Nursing Journal.
“I applaud the faculty, staff, and students of our highly-esteemed School of Nursing,” said President Elmira Mangum, Ph.D. “The excellence being displayed in the classroom and in the community is remarkable, and is reflective of our commitment to the advancement of knowledge, resolution of complex issues, and the empowerment of citizens and communities.”
The BestValueSchools.com ranking system was created using the National Center for Education Statistics’ College Navigator Database to identify the most affordable competitive institutions offering undergraduate nursing degrees. The site also applauded FAMU for its ideal location and giving nursing majors easy access to fieldwork in large hospitals, small community clinics, and other facilities.
The Nursing Journal’s ranking system recognizes America’s top nursing programs that offer the best value for its students, including a high-quality education at a reasonable cost, and educational options that make it easier for today’s busy students to attend. Passage rates and student satisfaction are also among the metrics used to identify the best programs the nation has to offer. Only three other Florida universities made the top 25: the University of Florida, University of South Florida, and Florida International University.
According to Ruena T. Norman, Ph.D., dean of the FAMU School of Nursing, this recognition further exemplifies the high-quality education provided to students by the program’s faculty and staff.
“I am so excited and proud of our recognition as one of the top nursing programs in the nation,” Norman said. “The commitment of our highly qualified faculty and staff has contributed to the satisfaction of our graduates and the continued success of our program.”
FAMU School of Nursing Associate Dean Jaibun K. Earp, Ph.D., explained that these accolades reflect the significant impact FAMU has on nursing education locally, statewide, and nationally.
“The site visit by ACEN reviewers was a comprehensive review of every facet of the program, and the reaccreditation decision brings accolades not only to the School of Nursing and the University but also reflects well on the nursing profession and community members that support and contribute to our school,” Earp said.
She added, “Ranking in the top percentiles distinguishes FAMU as one of the most outstanding nursing schools in the United States and complements not only the quality students we produce, but also the dedicated faculty and administration.”
FAMU’s School of Nursing currently offers the following degrees and programs: a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), the Fast-Track Registered Nurse-BSN Program, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN); and the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science Cooperative Program with the University of Florida and Florida State University.
Also, post-degree certificate programs for students with master degrees in advanced practice nursing (APN) and non-APN roles are offered.
