HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — Centenary University’s Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program has earned accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, a national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
The accreditation recognizes the university’s RN-to-BSN program for meeting standards related to curriculum, faculty and student outcomes.
“Centenary University is steadfast in its commitment to the health and wellbeing of all people,” said President John R. Schol, D.Min. “Earning CCNE accreditation is a powerful affirmation of that mission and an important step forward for our growing nursing programs. Our RN to BSN degree offers a rigorous, flexible pathway for working nurses to advance their careers while helping to meet the evolving healthcare needs of our communities. This recognition underscores Centenary’s dedication to delivering high-quality, practice-ready academic programs that improve lives, support healthier futures, and strengthen New Jersey’s healthcare workforce for years to come.”
Centenary Director of Nursing Rebecca Cooper, DNP, helped oversee the accreditation process after being appointed to the role last year. The process included completion of an 86-page self-study and a site visit conducted in September 2025. The accreditation approval is retroactive to September 2025.
“Accreditation of Centenary’s program is important because it demonstrates the university’s commitment to academic excellence, accountability, and continuous quality improvement,” Cooper said. “It is also critically important to our graduates. Accreditation validates the quality of their education, enhances their professional credibility, and supports their eligibility for advanced education, leadership opportunities, and certain employment and tuition assistance programs. In addition, accreditation assures employers and graduate schools that Centenary University graduates have been prepared at the highest level.”
The RN-to-BSN program launched in 2023 in partnership with Atlantic Health System and is designed to help working nurses advance into leadership, public health and school nursing roles. The fully asynchronous program can be completed in five semesters and allows many students to complete practicum requirements at their workplace.
Centenary currently enrolls 19 students in the program. Several students work at Overlook Hospital in Summit and receive financial support through the university’s Reeves Scholarship program.
The program graduated its first student in December, with seven additional students earning Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees during Centenary’s 151st commencement ceremony on May 16.
“Centenary University is dedicated to preparing highly competent, ethical, and practice-ready nurses,” Cooper said. “Our RN to BSN program is designed specifically for nurses in New Jersey who are seeking a flexible, rigorous pathway to advance their careers through evidence-based practice, leadership development, and real-world application to support career advancement.”
