By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean’s (USC) Nursing Education Department has achieved a significant milestone in its journey towards accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Following a series of rigorous evaluations and assessments, USC has successfully attained Candidacy Status, marking a crucial step forward in ensuring the program meets stringent international quality standards.
A Journey Towards Excellence
The journey towards Candidacy Status was guided by the Advisory visit from ACEN, which took place from October 1-4, 2023. This visit aimed to assist USC in meeting the necessary criteria for Candidacy Status, a pivotal stage in the accreditation process. Candidacy Status signifies that USC’s nursing education program aligns with rigorous international standards, ensuring graduates can seamlessly transfer credits globally.
The ACEN Advisory team, led by Dr. Nell Ard, Director of ACEN, acknowledged USC’s commitment to excellence. USC’s responses to quality standards were deemed accurate,
and efforts to enhance teaching and learning, including curriculum updates and the acquisition of simulation manikins, were recognized as valuable contributions to the educational experience.
Positive Outcomes and Looking Ahead
The Advisory visit yielded positive outcomes, with the ACEN team acknowledging USC’s commitment to excellence. USC’s responses to quality standards were deemed accurate, and efforts to enhance teaching and learning, including curriculum updates and the acquisition of simulation manikins, were recognized as valuable contributions to the educational experience.
Dr. Phyllis Woolford, Director of USC’s Nursing Department, highlighted the positive impact of the accreditation process on faculty, staff, and student morale. She emphasized the international validation of faculty and staff contributions to program quality, fostering professional development and growth within the department.
With Candidacy Status achieved, USC’s Nursing Education Department is poised for further growth and development. The department foresees expanding its offerings to include a Master’s program in Primary Healthcare, catering to students with aspirations to work in the United States.
While celebrating this milestone, USC remains committed to maintaining high standards across its Nursing Education programs. The department has identified specific resource and improvement needs, including the provision of dry labs with simulation manikins, larger classrooms, additional faculty, and the occupation of a new building on the main campus.
As USC continues its journey towards full accreditation, the university remains dedicated to providing exceptional education and training in nursing. The attainment of Candidacy Status represents a significant achievement, reflecting USC’s unwavering commitment to excellence in Nursing Education.
With a strong foundation in place, USC looks forward to further enhancing its reputation and attracting top-tier faculty and students in the field of Nursing Education.
The USC community celebrates this milestone and looks forward to the continued success and growth of the Nursing Education Department.
