Research College of Nursing earns continued accreditation

Kansas City, MO – 2/11/2022 – Research College of Nursing (RCoN) earns continued accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) through 2031. RCoN has successfully maintained this accreditation since first eligibility gained in 1987, which is a demonstration of the institution’s caliber and quality.

The HLC is a private, nonprofit accrediting agency, formed in 1895 as one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States. HLC accredits degree-granting colleges and universities across the nation and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

“Maintaining accreditation is a complex and honorable achievement that is beneficial for students and institutions,” says RCoN President Thad Wilson, PhD, RN, FAAN. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes accreditation for eligibility to disperse federal (Title IV) student financial aid.

“It’s assurance students receive quality education from a reputable institution trusted by potential employers and licensing boards.” On their board exams to become a registered nurse, RCoN graduates consistently score above the state of Missouri and national benchmarks. In January the College reported a 2021 NCLEX pass rate of 90%.

An HLC review team visited the RCoN campus in the fall of 2021 to evaluate institutional practices along with its pandemic response. College faculty and staff contributed their time and expertise in discussions with the reviewers. Extensive documentation submitted to HLC provided evidence that the RCoN mission guides operations, in addition to institutional integrity, effectiveness, teaching and learning.

“RCoN has become synonymous with excellence and we celebrate this accreditation reaffirmation together. It’s evident that we put students first. We take tremendous pride in our mission to educate nurses, develop leaders and care for our communities,” says Wilson.