The development comes as nursing shortages restrict patients’ access to high-quality care throughout the state

In a major step forward for healthcare education and workforce readiness in Virginia, Bryant & Stratton College’s Hampton Campus has earned accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approval from the Virginia Board of Nursing for its Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Practical Nursing (PN) programs.

This dual endorsement marks a milestone achievement for the college, affirming the quality and rigor of its nursing programs at a time when the state faces a dire shortage of qualified nurses.

Meeting a Critical Need

Virginia currently has one of the lowest registered nurse-to-patient ratios in the country—1,677 nurses per 100,000 residents—which contributes to significant gaps in patient care, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Despite extensive recruitment efforts, tens of thousands of nursing positions remain unfilled across the state. Accreditation of the Hampton nursing programs bolsters Bryant & Stratton College’s status as a trustworthy champion of nursing careers in the state, while generating excitement among prospective and current students, faculty, alumni, and community stakeholders.

The Impact of Accreditation and Board Approval

ACEN accreditation is a nationally recognized mark of academic and clinical excellence. It is evident that Bryant & Stratton College’s nursing curriculum meets or exceeds the highest standards of the nursing profession, enhancing graduates’ employability, access to advanced education, and eligibility for federal support programs.

Approval from the Virginia Board of Nursing provides equally vital confirmation of the programs' legal and academic standing in the state, solidifying Bryant & Stratton College's role in addressing the nursing workforce shortage.

“This is an important public health advancement,” said Shannon Henry, Nursing Program Director at the Hampton Campus. “Accreditation by the ACEN and approval from the Virginia Board of Nursing ensures that our students are prepared, qualified, and legally empowered to sit for licensure exams and step into the workforce as safe, competent, and compassionate nursing professionals.”

Faculty Excellence Drives Student Success

These achievements are also a testament to the dedication of Bryant & Stratton College’s faculty. The Hampton nursing professors display not only impressive credentials but also a deep commitment to student development. Through mentorship and expert instruction, they have cultivated a learning environment where students are empowered to succeed in the classroom and in clinical practice.

“Our faculty’s contribution has been nothing short of remarkable as we worked toward this day,” said Jeff Thorud, Director of Hampton Road Campuses at Bryant & Stratton College. “These endorsements signal not only the integrity of our programs but also the daily efforts of our educators who are shaping the next generation of healthcare experts.”

A Trusted Gateway into Nursing Careers

These accreditations offer clear, public proof that Bryant & Stratton College’s Hampton Campus is delivering high-quality, workforce-ready education in Virginia. They provide assurance to students, families, employers, and policymakers that the College is able to meet both regional and national healthcare challenges at a time of urgent need.

To learn more about Bryant & Stratton College’s accredited nursing programs at the Hampton Campus, https://www.bryantstratton.edu/degrees/accreditation/

About Bryant & Stratton College

Founded in 1854, Bryant & Stratton College, a non-profit institution, has built its reputation and success on a commitment to excellence and high standards. Bryant & Stratton College is an accredited institution and a member of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) www.msche.org. Bryant & Stratton College’s accreditation status is Accreditation Reaffirmed. The Commission’s most recent action on the institution’s accreditation status on 6/22/2017 was to reaffirm accreditation. MSCHE is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Bryant & Stratton College has campus locations in New York, Ohio, Virginia, and Wisconsin, as well as an Online Education division, and a Continuing Education department. For over 170 years, Bryant & Stratton College has offered students access to career-relevant education leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and professional certificates in the fields of healthcare, business, criminal justice, design, financial services, hospitality, human resources, paralegal studies, and information technology. In addition to access to education, Bryant & Stratton College offers students access to tools to help ensure their greatest chance at success through their Career Life Prep® program. Bryant & Stratton College works with students to best map individual career paths – teaching the soft skills employers value most, helping establish valuable professional connections and internships and offering career services support even after graduation. Bryant & Stratton College is committed to helping students succeed in their education and beyond.

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