Which description best defines CCNE?

• A. An autonomous accrediting agency ensuring the quality and integrity of baccalaureate and graduate education programs
• B. A state regulatory board for nursing licensure
• C. A national association for advanced practice nurses
• D. A consumer advocacy group for patients

Answer: (A)

CCNE, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, is a national, autonomous accrediting agency that evaluates and accredits nursing programs at the baccalaureate and graduate levels to ensure they meet established standards of quality and integrity. It operates independently of state licensing bodies and professional associations, focusing on program outcomes, faculty qualifications, resources, and continuous improvement. This helps distinguish CCNE from state boards that license nurses and set practice rules, from national professional associations that represent nurses, and from consumer advocacy groups that push for patient rights—none of which perform program accreditation. So the description that best defines CCNE is that it is an autonomous accrediting agency ensuring the quality and integrity of baccalaureate and graduate education programs.